The Philadelphia Phillies have endured a turbulent stretch with the devastating news of Zack Wheeler’s blood clot diagnosis, leaving fans and the franchise anxious about the ace pitcher’s long-term health and availability. However, amid that uncertainty, a major boost is arriving for the Phillies’ rotation that has fans breathing a sigh of relief.
Aaron Nola makes long-awaited return
After three months on the sidelines with a sprained ankle and a rib stress fracture, Aaron Nola is officially set to return to the Phillies’ rotation. Manager Rob Thomson confirmed that Nola will start Sunday in the finale of the four-game series against the Washington Nationals.
This marks Nola’s first appearance since May 14, and his comeback could not be more timely. The Phillies’ starting rotation, regarded as one of the best in baseball earlier this year, has faltered in recent weeks. With Wheeler sidelined and several pitchers battling inconsistency, Nola’s presence is expected to stabilize the unit.
Thomson also revealed the Philadelphia Phillies will adopt a six-man rotation temporarily, giving much-needed rest to arms showing signs of fatigue in the second half of the season. Ranger Suárez’s next start will be pushed to Monday, while Taijuan Walker remains in the mix.
Phillies’ rotation struggles highlight the need for Nola
Recent performances underline just how crucial Nola’s return is. Wheeler himself had been laboring even before his diagnosis, going 1-2 with a 4.71 ERA across his last five starts while reporting shoulder soreness. Ranger Suárez has also struggled, posting a 6.11 ERA in his last six outings, while Jesús Luzardo and Cristopher Sánchez have been inconsistent during a grueling stretch of games.
The Philadelphia Phillies are in the midst of playing 24 games in 25 days — a relentless schedule that has stretched their staff thin. The six-man rotation offers pitchers a chance to recuperate and reset.
Signs of optimism in Nola’s rehab
Nola’s rehab stint gave fans plenty of reason to be hopeful. Pitching for Triple-A Lehigh Valley earlier this week, he struck out 11 batters over 5 2/3 innings, showcasing both his command and endurance. That performance solidified the decision to bring him back to the big leagues.
Although Nola struggled early in the season, going 1-7 with a 6.16 ERA in nine starts, he had shown flashes of brilliance before his injuries, notably strong outings against the Mets, Cubs, and Diamondbacks. With the Phillies easing him back into action, his first four starts are expected to come against Washington (twice), Atlanta, and Miami.
Hope restored in Philadelphia
While Wheeler’s absence remains a significant blow, Nola’s return offers the Philadelphia Phillies a lifeline. With the team firmly in the playoff race, having one of their most dependable starters back in action couldn’t have come at a better time.