Zack Wheeler made Philadelphia Phillies history Tuesday night, striking out the first seven batters he faced during a 6-4 win over the Milwaukee Brewers.
Wheeler’s seven consecutive strikeouts to open the game established a new Phillies franchise record. The right-hander set the mark while working through Milwaukee’s lineup at Citizens Bank Park.
According to Phillies reporter Scott Lauber, Wheeler’s opening stretch gave Philadelphia an early spark as the club continued its push toward the postseason.
Wheeler finished the night with 11 strikeouts over 5.2 innings. He allowed five hits and three earned runs while continuing a strong 2026 campaign.
Through 27 starts, Wheeler entered the night with a 13-5 record, a 3.06 ERA and a 1.06 WHIP. He also had 188 strikeouts across 156 innings.
The performance also moved Wheeler closer to another career milestone. During Tuesday’s start, he reached the 2,000-strikeout milestone for his career.
Wheeler’s season began with an injured-list stint following surgery, but he returned April 25 and has remained an important part of Philadelphia’s rotation. His workload could be managed carefully with October approaching.
Brett Davis-Imagn Images
Interim manager Don Mattingly said Wheeler could make one more regular-season start Sunday against the Tampa Bay Rays. The Phillies could also decide to skip that outing depending on their postseason positioning.
Philadelphia improved to 87-70 with Tuesday’s victory and continues to chase a postseason berth. The Phillies have five games remaining after beating the Brewers, who have already clinched the NL Central.
Wheeler’s record-setting start provided another reminder of what Philadelphia can get from its ace as the regular season reaches its final days.
ALSO SEE:
- MLB Home Run Predictions Today: Best HR Prop Bets for Tuesday, Sept. 22
- NRFI and YRFI MLB Bets Today: Best First-Inning Predictions for Tuesday, Sept. 22
