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Phillies pitcher Zack Wheeler needs surgery for venous thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS), a condition requiring rib removal. Doctors expect a six-to-eight-month recovery, potentially impacting the 2026 season. While TOS can end careers, Wheeler's type is less severe than nerve-related TOS. His prognosis is positive, with the hope of a full recovery, similar to Merrill Kelly's experience. The surgery is riskier than Tommy John surgery, but Wheeler's acute case offers a better outlook. His recovery will determine his future in baseball.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.