NEW YORK (AP) — Zack Wheeler expected to be pitching in a playoff chase this month.
As of two weeks ago, that meant his bags were packed — a recommendation from Mets general manager Brodie Van Wagenen as the trade deadline neared, rumors swirled and New York trailed 12 teams in the NL standings.
The right-hander was going to land with whichever contender wanted him most. Improbably, that turned out to be the Mets.
Wheeler ground up Miami over eight innings, Wilson Ramos and Pete Alonso homered, and New York beat the Marlins 5-0 Tuesday night for its 12th win in 13 games, including five of six since the deadline.