The Philadelphia Phillies are just one win away from the NLCS after spanking the Atlanta Braves 9-1 in Game 3 of the NLDS on Friday. While Noah Syndergaard is on the mound for Game 4 on Saturday, Phils manager Rob Thomson is exploring all possibilities. That means Zack Wheeler, who is on only two days' rest, could pitch an inning and he's even available to start a series-deciding Game 5 in Atlanta.

Via Todd Zolecki:

“Rob Thomson said Zack Wheeler is available to pitch for an inning today, if needed. He also could start a potential Game 5 on short rest. Nothing decided, of course.”

Related NewsArticle continues below
Colorado Rockies second baseman Adael Amador (1) is tagged out attempting to reach third in the seventh inning against the Philadelphia Phillies at Coors Field.
Rockies lapping White Sox’s historic MLB misery after 40th loss
Philadelphia Phillies designated hitter Kyle Schwarber (12) gestures as he rounds the bases on a solo home run in the ninth inning against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field.
Phillies’ Kyle Schwarber jokes about 500 home runs after mammoth No. 300
Philadelphia Phillies designated hitter Kyle Schwarber (12) is interviewed after the game against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field.
Phillies’ Kyle Schwarber makes trade to get 300th home run ball back

As noted, nothing is set in stone. But Wheeler is one of the Phillies' best arms alongside Aaron Nola and is always reliable. The hard-throwing righty tossed six innings of three-run baseball in Game 2 at Truist Park, also striking out five. Problem is, the offense provided him with absolutely no run support. That's been a common theme when Wheeler is on the hill.

Nevertheless, the Phillies evidently trust Wheeler in big-game situations. After all, he went 12-7 with a 2.82 ERA during the regular season. Pitching on just three days' rest in a possible Game 5 does seem a bit dicey, but the veteran is clearly capable.

Ultimately though, the Phillies will just be hoping to close out the NLDS on Saturday and eliminate the defending World Series champions, which means Wheeler would have proper rest and likely get the ball in Game 1 of the NLCS against either the Padres or Dodgers. We'll see what happens.