Zack Wheeler and Phillies seemingly make decision that puts All-Star Game in play

The Philadelphia Phillies, for the second straight year, have one of the most egregious All-Star snubs in Major League Baseball.

Last year it was Cristopher Sanchez, and now this season it's Zack Wheeler. The righty ace was passed up for an All-Star nod, and now, he's not even making it as a reserve since he's scheduled to pitch Sunday, effectively taking him out of contention for Tuesday's game.

But, as Todd Zolecki of MLB.com reports, Wheeler and the Phillies have made a decision that could open the door to MLB giving Wheeler his deserved All-Star nod.

Phillies and Zack Wheeler make decision that could open door to All-Star Game

"Phillies ace Zack Wheeler said he would pitch in Tuesday's All-Star Game, even though he is scheduled to start Sunday's first-half finale in Detroit," Zolecki reports.

Since a starting pitcher who starts on Sunday, July 12, before the July 14 All-Star Game wouldn't be eligible to pitch, Wheeler wouldn't be able to pitch during the All-Star Game if his scheduled start were to occur.

This season, Wheeler has a 2.28 ERA with a 9-1 record and 4.3 bWAR this season. His 14-strikeout dominant outing against the Cincinnati Reds was further proof that he should be an All-Star as well.

But Wheeler is open to pitching during the All-Star Game despite it being just two days after his Sunday start. It's a bold decision, but would the Phillies even let him make such an appearance?

"I'd be OK with it," Don Mattingly said. "I haven't talked to Dave (Dombrowski). Nobody's asked that question. Hypotheticals are always dangerous. But, I mean, if guys really want to do something, and they feel like they can do it..."

MORE: Phillies’ Cristopher Sanchez is planned NL All-Star starter

Don Mattingly, the interim Phillies manager, is on board with Wheeler pitching during the All-Star Game just two days after his normally scheduled start.

Phillies pitching coach Caleb Cotham also said that, "I trust Zack," and that the Phillies ace should have the chance to go if Wheeler believes he's ready.

Part of the reason why this might work is that Wheeler throws a bullpen two days after a start during his normal schedule. This time, his bullpen could just happen during the All-Star Game.

Wheeler says he will be good to pitch during the game, and the Phillies aren't telling him no, at least right now, either.

While there's no telling how this will shake out, Wheeler and the Phillies have seemingly made a decision that puts the ball in MLB's court to decide if Wheeler is an All-Star or not.

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