HOUSTON –– In the moment, virtually everyone questioned the decision. Some cooler heads will prevail, but until the Philadelphia Phillies hoist the World Series trophy up again, a debate about whether Rob Thomson should have pulled Zack Wheeler in favor of José Alvarado will be an evergreen topic.
Let’s set the stage.
Wheeler – who had experienced a dip in velocity in a disappointing Game 2 start – was excellent through the first five innings, allowing just two hits. With an extra day of rest, the 32-year-old’s velocity bounced back and he shoved for five innings.