Phillies ace Zack Wheeler announces major retirement decision

After signing with the Philadelphia Phillies in December 2019, Zack Wheeler established himself as the ace of the NL East team's pitching staff.

Boasting a 6-2 record, along with a 2.85 ERA and 101 strikeouts this season, Wheeler is following up well on the exceptional campaign he enjoyed in 2024. Last year, he finished runner-up in the NL Cy Young award voting, behind Atlanta Braves ace Chris Sale.

Although he is on top of his game, Wheeler is planning to call time on his career after the 2027 season, according to The Athletic's Matt Gelb on Sunday.

Wheeler's big announcement gives the Phillies another key player they need to replace soon. With numerous stars over 30 years old, Philadelphia has to deal with a massive rebuild in the coming years. Its executives have a huge task on their hands to ensure the franchise remains competitive during the transition period.

Zack Wheeler talked about the possibility of retiring to spend more time with his family in the past

In February, Zack Wheeler discussed the possibility of calling time on his career soon during his appearance on "The Phillies Show."

As the ace explained, his priority is to spend as much time as he can with his growing family. It has been difficult to manage as the grueling schedule of a baseball season limits it.

"It's far away (end of contract with Phillies), but I'm pretty sure I'm done after this, but you know time will tell and who knows I never want to say never, but more likely I'll probably be done after this," Wheeler said. "That was kind of the goal.

"I got four kids and my awesome wife, and I want to spend time with them too."

Phillies fans hope Wheeler can help bring at least one World Series title to Philadelphia before he hangs up his cleats for good.