In a significant move that reflects their commitment to building a strong pitching roster, the Philadelphia Phillies have agreed to a seven-year, $172 million contract with right-handed pitcher Aaron Nola. This deal, notable for its size and timing, comes amidst a relatively quiet period in the free-agent market.
Nola, 30, has been an integral part of the Phillies since being drafted as the seventh overall pick in the 2014 draft. He quickly made his way to the major leagues by 2015, establishing himself as a dependable player for the Phillies. Over the last six seasons, Nola has stood out for his consistent performance, leading Major League Baseball with the most starts (175) and recording the second-most innings pitched (1,065⅓), narrowly behind Gerrit Cole.
The contract agreement is significant not only for Nola but also for the Phillies. It represents the largest deal for a pitcher in the franchise’s history and the 11th largest in baseball overall. Such a commitment indicates the Phillies’ strategy to maintain a strong core team, with Nola being a key part of their future plans.
During his tenure with the Phillies, Nola has been a model of stability and efficiency. Despite a slight uptick in his ERA to 4.46 this year, he has continued to be an innings eater for the team, pitching 193⅔ innings while striking out 202 and walking just 45. His ability to deliver strikeouts while limiting walks has made him one of the most desirable pitchers in the free-agent market.
Nola’s career with the Phillies has been marked by significant achievements. He boasts a record of 90-71 with a 3.72 ERA. Throughout his career spanning 1,422 innings, he has accumulated 1,582 strikeouts, 371 walks, and has conceded 169 home runs. His skill set, characterized by a 92 mph fastball and a top-tier curveball, has made him one of the best control pitchers in the game.
The agreement with Nola is part of the Phillies’ broader strategy to strengthen their team. It places Nola among other high-value players on the team, such as Bryce Harper, Trea Turner, Zack Wheeler, J.T. Realmuto, and Nick Castellanos, indicating the Phillies’ focus on building a competitive roster.
Nola’s signing is expected to trigger more activity in the baseball free agency market, which includes stars like Shohei Ohtani and Blake Snell. As teams continue to strategize and build their rosters for the upcoming seasons, Nola’s deal with the Phillies sets a precedent for what is shaping up to be an eventful offseason in Major League Baseball.