Star Phillies Pitcher Zach Wheeler Snubbed As All-Star

PHILADELPHIA — He came back from a major injury to get back to the top of his game. But a Major League Baseball rule will prevent Zach Wheeler from being an All-Star this year.

Since returning this season, the Philadelphia Phillies star pitcher has once again returned to his dominant self, posting a 9-1 record with a 2.28 ERA, 0.91 WHIP (walks and hits per innings pitched) and 98 strikeouts in 87 innings in his return from dreaded thoracic outlet surgery.

Many can even argue that Wheeler is pitching better than teammate Christopher Sanchez, who is expected to start Tuesday's game.

Wheeler took out his anger and disappointment on the Cincinnati Reds on Tuesday night, posting a career-high 14 strikeouts.

Wheeler spoke out about the snub since the game will be hosted by Philadelphia for the first time since 1996 and the first time at Citizens Bank Park.

“It pisses me off,” Wheeler told reporters after the game. “It’s kind of BS, so. Maybe if I wasn’t necessarily right in there, I wouldn’t be saying this, but I feel like I’ve earned it. And just because I pitch on a certain day … I can’t pitch in the All-Star Game. Or even be there or get the recognition for it.”

A Major League Baseball rule, though, protects teams and their players by making pitchers lined up to start on the Sunday before the break ineligible for the All-Star Game two days later — and Wheeler is not pleased with that rule.

He is expected to start the first-half finale against the Detroit Tigers on Sunday.

Wheeler missed the beginning of the season, but returned at the end of April, ahead of schedule.

Since then, the righty has formed possibly the best one-two pitcher punch with the lefty Sanchez.

Wheeler stated that he usually throws bullpen sessions two days after his starts and said he would be able to throw an inning in the All-Star Game.

To add insult to injury, MLB replaced three pitchers, but didn't add Wheeler, instead putting Phillies pitcher Jesus Luzardo.

If other players opt out of the game, Major League Baseball could right this wrong and put Wheeler on the roster so he can at least tip his cap to the hometown crowd during player introductions.

There are still a few days before the game.