Orioles Aim to Capitalize on Wheeler's Recent Struggles

WHO:

Fox News - Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Zack Wheeler

Fox News - Baltimore Orioles starting pitcher Kyle Bradish

MLB.com - Interim manager Don Mattingly

MLB.com - Cristopher Sánchez, a pitcher for the Philadelphia Phillies

WHAT:

Fox News - Zack Wheeler described a "BS rule" regarding pitching schedules that he believes is preventing him from being named an All-Star this year.

Fox News - Wheeler has a record of 10-2 for the season with a 2.53 ERA and a 0.92 WHIP.

Fox News - The Orioles are three games under .500.

MLB.com - Wheeler allowed five runs on six hits, one walk, and two home runs in a recent game against the Marlins.

MLB.com - Wheeler's four-seam fastball averaged 93.5 mph, which is down 1.7 mph from his season average.

MLB.com - Cristopher Sánchez pitched six scoreless innings, allowing two hits and striking out 11 batters in a game against the Orioles.

MLB.com - Sánchez is 14-4 with a 2.61 ERA in 23 starts.

WHERE:

Fox News - The game between the Phillies and Orioles is taking place at Camden Yards.

MLB.com - Wheeler's recent game was played in Miami.

WHEN:

MLB.com - Wheeler's shortest start since April 17, 2022, occurred recently.

MLB.com - Wheeler allowed five runs for the first time since May 29, 2025.

MLB.com - Sánchez's performance helped the Phillies snap a four-game losing streak.

WHY:

Fox News - The Phillies are likely going to be wrapped up in a wild card race for the remainder of the season due to their current performance.

MLB.com - The Phillies need Wheeler to perform well to make the postseason.

HOW:

MLB.com - Wheeler's performance was affected by feeling nauseous during his last start, which he stated did not impact his performance on the field.

(UPDATED August 2, 2026 15:53 UTC)

Zack Wheeler, the Philadelphia Phillies pitcher, has voiced his frustration over a "BS rule" that he believes is hindering his chances of being named an All-Star this season, despite boasting an impressive record of 10 wins and 2 losses with a 2.53 ERA. In a recent game against the Marlins, Wheeler struggled, allowing five runs on six hits, while Cristopher Sánchez delivered a stellar performance for the Phillies, pitching six scoreless innings and striking out 11 batters to help snap a four-game losing streak. Meanwhile, the Baltimore Orioles find themselves three games under .500 as they continue to compete in a tight wild card race.