articleThe Brief Phillies right-handed pitcher Zack Wheeler was diagnosed with venous thoracic outlet syndrome this week. Wheeler will undergo thoracic outlet decompression surgery in the coming weeks, and the recovery timeline is generally 6–8 months. Philadelphia Phillies right-handed pitcher Zack Wheeler has been diagnosed with venous thoracic outlet syndrome and will undergo surgery in the coming weeks, the team announced Saturday. Phillies medical update on Zack Wheeler (Photo: Phillies)What we know:The diagnosis came after Wheeler had a follow-up evaluation and received second opinions this week after his successful right upper extremity blood clot removal on Monday, August 18. What is venous thoracic outlet syndrome?