Aaron Nola’s Injury Update
PHILADELPHIA — It’s been nearly eight years since Aaron Nola last landed on the injured list, a time so long ago that back in 2017, Major League Baseball referred to it as the disabled list. Since the start of the 2018 season, no player has made more starts or pitched more innings than Nola.
Determined to Compete
Nola expressed his desire to pitch through a sprained right ankle that he sustained during a pregame agility drill last week. The Phillies respected his wishes, trusting Nola to know his physical limits.
Decision to Go on the IL
However, after Nola’s performance during a particularly tough outing, the Phillies decided to place him on the injured list. When he arrived at Citizens Bank Park two days later, he was informed of the decision. This will sideline him for at least two weeks, though the team does not view the injury as serious.
Impact on Performance
Nola has struggled this season with a 6.16 ERA in nine starts. He noted experiencing additional back stress from compensating for the ankle injury, which he relies on for pushing off the mound. Frustrated, he acknowledged that this injury would likely prevent him from achieving his goal of pitching 200 innings in 2025.
Mick Abel Takes the Mound
In his absence, Mick Abel will step in as a spot starter for the Phillies. The 2020 first-round pick is set to make his major league debut on Sunday against the Pittsburgh Pirates and is expected to return to Triple-A afterward.
Rotation Adjustments
While Taijuan Walker could have filled in as the starter, he pitched 59 innings as a reliever on Wednesday, making it impractical to start him. Instead, Abel’s insertion allows the team to adjust their rotation, pushing back other pitchers’ starts as well.
Future Outlook for Nola
The Phillies hope Nola will recover quickly, aiming for his return in early June. His most recent injury history includes a strained lower back that kept him out from April to May in 2017. As Nola remains committed to his recovery, he plans to stay active and accompany the team on their upcoming West Coast trip.
