"Zack Wheeler is evolved, he's a beast" - Mets icon gives massive compliment to Phillies ace after topping MLB rankings over Tarik Skubal, Chris Sale

Veteran Philadelphia Phillies ace Zack Wheeler has been one of the most consistent starters over the last few years. The two-time All-Star pitcher's consistency was acknowledged by MLB Network.

Zack Wheeler was ranked No. 1 on MLB Network's "Top 10 Starting Pitchers Right Now." He was ranked ahead of the two Cy Young winners from last year, Tarik Skubal (American League) in second place and Chris Sale (National League) in third place.

New York Mets Hall of Famer AI Leiter discussed Wheeler's evolution with the Phillies in conversation with broadcaster Brian Kenny. He said:

"This guy's been nothing short of great, and what I like is that he's got the best fastball according to the metrics of FanGraphs. He has the cutter, he added a sweeper last year, he's got the curveball and then he added a splitter.

"I know pitchers are a lot different than everyday players and this guy has shown nothing but consistency. He's the guy that gives you that seven-plus innings. Dare I say eight or nine if the bullpen and the staff need it. He is excellent, and he's been excellent and I like the fact that he's evolved. He's a beast. He's a monster. He's a force on the mound."

MLB Network took into account Zack Wheeler's metrics since the start of 2021 and Wheeler topped the list with the best RA9-WAR among starting pitchers.

Wheeler signed a $118 million contract with the Phillies in December 2019 and has been a mainstay at the franchise since. He signed a three-year, $126 million extension with the team ahead of the 2024 season and rewarded the faith by finishing the NL Cy Young Award finalist. However, he was beaten by veteran Atlanta Braves ace Chris Sale for the accolade.

Brian Kenny and AI Leiter snub Zack Wheeler on individual Top 10 list

While Zack Wheeler was the top pick by MLB's "The Shredder," broadcast Brian Kenny and AI Leiter had a different ace at the top of the list.

Both Kenny and Leiter went with Pittsburgh Pirates ace Paul Skenes as the No. 1 pitcher on their individual lists. Skenes has taken the MLB by storm, racking up incredible numbers in his Rookie of the Year campaign in 2024.

The pitching sensation also finished third in the NL Cy Young votings behind Chris Sale and Zack Wheeler.