Phillies' Wheeler to retire after 2027 season: 'That's the plan'

Philadelphia Phillies ace Zack Wheeler will hang up his cleats when his contract is done at the end of the 2027 season.

"That's the plan," Wheeler said, according to Matt Gelb of The Athletic.

The 35-year-old right-hander is once again in the NL Cy Young conversation after finishing runner-up for the award in 2021 and 2024. However, his pitching performance won't impact his retirement decision.

"Doesn't matter. No," Wheeler said when asked if his plans will change if he continues to dominate on the mound.

The two-time All-Star is focused on his future as a father of four kids, according to Gelb.

Wheeler owned a 2.85 ERA with 0.90 WHIP and 101 strikeouts over 82 innings (13 starts) entering Sunday's start against the Toronto Blue Jays. He signed a three-year, $126-million contract extension in March 2024 that pays him $42 million per season through 2027.