Phillies’ Zack Wheeler should have made All-Star team, Paul Skenes says

Pittsburgh Pirates phenom Paul Skenes didn’t hold back when asked about the All-Star Game snub of Philadelphia Phillies ace Zack Wheeler, making it clear he believes the veteran right-hander deserves a spot at this year’s Midsummer Classic in Philly.

“He should be here”

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

— Jeff Skversky (@JeffSkversky) July 14, 2026

“He should be here,” Skenes said, expressing genuine disappointment that Wheeler was left off the roster despite his continued excellence on the mound.

The comments carry extra weight given the source. Skenes, one of the most dominant young arms in baseball and a former All-Star himself, has been vocal about his admiration for Wheeler’s craft and consistency.

“He’s my favorite, if not one of my favorite pitchers,” Skenes said.

For Wheeler, the snub comes during a season where he’s once again proven to be one of the National League’s most reliable starters, anchoring a Phillies rotation that has leaned heavily on his ability to eat innings and shut down opposing lineups. His absence from the All-Star roster has sparked debate among analysts and players alike, with Skenes now adding his voice to those who believe the selection process overlooked one of the league’s premier arms.

What makes Skenes’ comments particularly notable is the irony of the setting. This year’s All-Star Game takes place in Philadelphia, meaning Wheeler will likely watch from home as the event unfolds in his own city, without the Phillies’ ace getting to pitch in front of his home crowd.

Wheeler’s track record speaks for itself, and Skenes’ public endorsement only reinforces the growing sentiment that this year’s snub was a missed opportunity for MLB. As one of the game’s brightest young stars praising a veteran he considers among the best, Skenes’ words add another layer to the ongoing conversation about roster fairness and the metrics used to determine All-Star worthiness.

Whether or not the league addresses the oversight, Wheeler’s performance this season continues to speak louder than any snub, and players around the league, like Skenes, are taking notice.

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