‘I love it here’ — Nola on his future and the Phillies evolution he’s witnessed

‘I love it here’ — Nola on his future and the Phillies evolution he’s witnessed originally appeared on NBC Sports Philadelphia

For two consecutive years, the Phillies’ top three starters and key bullpen pieces have played a crucial role in their postseason success. This has highlighted the significance of pitching depth and dominant starting rotation.

With Zack Wheeler, Aaron Nola, and Ranger Suarez, the Phillies possess experienced playoff starters who have delivered in October. Additionally, they have a reliable group of seven relievers who excel in high-pressure situations. Due to this, Manager Rob Thomson can confidently make bold decisions, often replacing his starting pitchers by the sixth inning.

Although starting pitching has been somewhat devalued in recent postseasons, the Phillies understand Nola’s worth. As a impending free agent, Nola has been exceptional when it matters most,with a record of 5-2 in seven playoff starts, where he allowed two runs or fewer in four of them. The Phillies will once again rely on Nola’s skills in Game 2 of the NLCS against the Diamondbacks.

When asked about his intentions in free agency, Nola expressed his desire to stay with the Phillies, emphasizing his love for the organization and his connection to the team’s journey from the rebuilding phase to their current state as a contender in the World Series.

Having debuted in 2015, Nola boasts the longest tenure among current Phillies players. He has achieved individual success, finishing in the top ten for Cy Young voting multiple times. In 2018, Nola posted outstanding numbers, with a 2.37 ERA that surpassed the performances of Roy Halladay, Cliff Lee, and Cole Hamels.

Despite a relatively challenging year by his standards, Nola remains a highly sought-after free agent. Despite an ERA of 4.46 and allowing 32 home runs, the interest in Nola remains high. Teams such as the Cardinals, Braves, Dodgers, and Red Sox, who are in need of starting pitchers, might be willing to pay a substantial amount to secure his services.

Last offseason, Carlos Rodon signed a six-year, $162 million deal with the Yankees. While Rodon had a strong 2022 season, he lacked Nola’s track record of success. Comparatively, Nola and his representatives believe he deserves a similar contract.

The Phillies were unsuccessful in reaching an extension agreement with Nola prior to the start of the season. However, they can still revisit contract negotiations after the playoffs. The need for starting pitching remains high, especially with prospect injuries and potential departures of other pitchers in the future.

Nola takes pride in witnessing the growth of the Phillies as an organization. From the rebuilding phase to becoming a destination for top free agents, they have transformed into a legitimate World Series contender. Nola appreciates the team’s progress and cherishes his role in the process.

On Tuesday night, Nola will take the mound at Citizens Bank Park for potentially his last start as a Phillie. He aims to lead his team to a commanding 2-0 NLCS lead against the Diamondbacks, further solidifying his importance to the Phillies’ success.