Wheeler: Fixing pitch tipping not too difficult

NEW YORK -- Zack Wheeler's work began Thursday in Denver, when he and pitching coach Dan Warthen attempted to fix the pitch-tipping issue that plagued him during Tuesday's start. It continued Friday at Citi Field, where he and Warthen again worked to correct the flaw.

They believe that when Wheeler takes the mound Sunday for his third career start and first home outing, no Nationals hitters will know what is coming.

"I don't think it's anything too difficult," Wheeler said. "Just a little small tweak here and there, and we'll be good to go."

Specifically, Warthen worked on correcting Wheeler's arm slot, which tended to vary from fastballs to breaking pitches. The flaw may not have been visible to many observers, but it was enough for trained hitters to recognize and take advantage, as the White Sox did last Tuesday.

Wheeler hopes his work will make for a happy homecoming Sunday, in front of what is sure to be one of the larger crowds Citi Field has seen this season. Among those in attendance will be Wheeler's parents and brothers, who also watched his debut in Atlanta.

Between now and then, Wheeler will continue trying to adjust both off the field -- he is living out of a suitcase at a local hotel -- and on.

"I'm just working on a few things and keeping it simple, nothing too much," Wheeler said. "It worked out well."