Paul Skenes didn’t dance around the question of Zack Wheeler’s All-Star omission.
The Pittsburgh Pirates right-hander said the Philadelphia Phillies ace belongs in the Midsummer Classic, and he made that view plain when talking about Wheeler’s snub from this year’s roster in Philadelphia.
“He should be here,” Skenes said, showing real disappointment that Wheeler was left out despite the work he’s done on the mound.
That opinion carries some extra punch coming from Skenes. He’s one of the most electric young pitchers in baseball and has already been an All-Star himself, and he’s made no secret of how much he respects Wheeler’s game.
“He's my favorite, if not one of my favorite pitchers,” Skenes said.
“He should be here”
— Jeff Skversky (@JeffSkversky) July 14, 2026
🖤 Pirates phenom Paul Skenes says Phillies Starter Zack Wheeler Should Be at the MLB All-Star Game in Philly
“He’s my favorite if not 1 of my favorite pitchers” pic.twitter.com/du0TWk5al3
Wheeler’s season has once again put him in the conversation as one of the National League’s most dependable starters. He’s been the backbone of a Phillies rotation that has leaned on him to pile up innings and keep opposing lineups in check, yet he still wound up off the All-Star roster.
That decision has already drawn plenty of discussion, and Skenes’ comments only add to it. A player with his profile openly backing Wheeler gives the snub even more visibility.
The setting makes it sting a little more, too. The All-Star Game is being played in Philadelphia this year, which means Wheeler is likely to be watching from home while the league’s showcase unfolds in his own city.
For Wheeler, the numbers and the reputation continue to do the talking. For Skenes, the message was simple: the Phillies ace should have been there.
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