Imagine discovering that a professional athlete keeps a piece of their own rib in their closet—yes, you read that right! Philadelphia Phillies ace Zack Wheeler has done just that, and it’s as fascinating as it is bizarre. But here’s where it gets even more intriguing: this isn’t just a quirky keepsake; it’s a reminder of a career-altering surgery that could have sidelined him for good. Let’s dive into the story behind this unusual memento and what it means for Wheeler’s future on the mound.
We all have our ways of storing meaningful items—documents, jewelry, family heirlooms—but extracted body parts? That’s a new one. Yet, Wheeler revealed in a recent interview that the partial rib removed during his surgery last summer now resides in a case, tucked away in his closet. And this is the part most people miss: the rib had to undergo special preservation to prevent decay, adding another layer of complexity to this already unusual story.
Wheeler’s 2025 season came to an abrupt halt in mid-August when he was diagnosed with venous thoracic outlet syndrome, a condition where nerves or blood vessels become compressed between the first rib and collarbone. The surgery in September not only removed a blood clot but also part of his rib—a procedure that could have ended his career prematurely. Thankfully, Wheeler is on the road to recovery, though he’s not expected to be ready for Opening Day. Fans might see him back in action within the first two months of the 2026 season.
Before this health setback, Wheeler was having a stellar season, posting a 2.71 ERA, 0.94 WHIP, 195 strikeouts, and 5.0 wins above replacement across 24 starts (149.2 innings). Over six seasons with the Phillies, the 35-year-old right-hander has been a cornerstone of the team, boasting a 2.91 ERA, 1.02 WHIP, and 30.4 wins above replacement. He’s also made 11 postseason starts and was the runner-up for the 2021 National League Cy Young Award. But here’s the controversial question: Is keeping a removed rib a sentimental keepsake or a strange obsession? Let’s just say opinions are divided.
Wheeler isn’t the only athlete to hold onto a rib. Washington Commanders quarterback Sam Hartman had a similar experience during his college days at Notre Dame. Diagnosed with Paget-Schroetter syndrome, a form of venous thoracic outlet syndrome, Hartman had part of his rib removed—and turned it into a necklace. Talk about wearing your story on your sleeve (or, in this case, around your neck).
So, what do you think? Is keeping a removed body part a bold statement of resilience, or just plain odd? And this is where it gets even more thought-provoking: If you had to keep a part of your body after surgery, what would you do with it? Let us know in the comments—we’re curious to hear your take!
For more fascinating stories from Major League Baseball, follow your favorite teams and players to stay updated on games, news, and more. After all, baseball is full of surprises—both on and off the field.
