Philadelphia Phillies' Record-Breaking Extension of Ace Worth Every Penny
Zack is back.
The Philadelphia Phillies made a splashy signing on Monday with the reported news that right-hander Zack Wheeler has agreed to a three-year extension for $126 million.
The deal is the largest annual average salary for any contract in history.
That's saying something.
Wheeler is worth every penny.
The 33-year-old signed a five-year, $118 million contract on Dec. 9, 2019. It turned out to be one of the best signings ever by the Phillies. Arguments could be made for Jim Thome or Bryce Harper.
Wheeler has been sensational since arriving in Philadelphia.
Over his first four seasons with the Phillies, Wheeler has started 101 games with a 43-25 record and 3.06 ERA.
He has been reliable and available, dominant and dependable. Wheeler has been terrific in the postseason as well. In fact, they likely wouldn't have advanced to the playoffs over the past two seasons without him.
In 11 postseason games -- 10 starts -- Wheeler has produced a 2.42 ERA.
But it's so much more than statistics.
Wheeler arrives in spring training every season and puts in the work. He's not flashy or cocky. He just goes to work. He grinds. He executes. His demeanor never changes.
Even if he has a bad outing, he goes back to work and fixes the problem.
When he's on the mound, the delivery looks free and easy. There's not a lot of movement. Wheeler can throw a 98 miles-per-hour fastball with ease.
When his mechanics are in line, he's as good as any pitcher in Major League Baseball.
President of Baseball Operations Dave Dombrowski should be given credit for getting this deal done now. There will be no distractions. Aaron Nola is signed. Now Wheeler has been extended.
The contract won't change their ace, either.
No chance.
He'll continue to put in the work to get better.
And Philadelphia will be better off.
With Wheeler extended, the Phillies will remain in contention for a World Series title.
That's the ultimate goal. They need Wheeler to get there.
