He left with a one-run lead, but it was blown by Matt Strahm in the eighth. Wheeler had a little extra velocity tonight after missing a turn for the birth of his child, averaging 96.6 mph with his fastball. He got 17 missed swings, including nine on his 42 fastballs, and he struck out seven. He’ll probably make his next start Sunday against the Blue Jays.

After missing one full turn through the rotation, Wheeler is starting against the Cubs tonight.

It’s official. Rookie sensation Mick Abel and struggling southpaw Jesús Luzardo will take the ball on Tuesday and Wednesday, respectively, to close out a three-game series against the Cubs. Wheeler has been away from the club on paternity leave over the past few days, but was able to throw a bullpen session on Sunday, and is good to go for Monday’s opener in Philadelphia.

Thomson added that Wheeler, who has been on paternity leave since Wednesday, is scheduled to throw a bullpen session on Saturday, but will need some extra time before he’s ready to take the ball again. Technically, the club will need to transfer him off the paternity list at some point this weekend, but that will merely be a procedural move. Fantasy managers should anticipate him being ready to take the ball early next week against the Cubs.