The Philadelphia Phillies continue to rank among baseball’s top teams this season, largely due to their dependable pitching rotation. However, veteran ace Aaron Nola has faced setbacks following a right ankle sprain that landed him on the 15-day injured list starting May 16. Although initially seen as a minor issue, Nola’s ankle injury has delayed his return to the mound as he works through rehabilitation.
Dave Dombrowski, the Phillies’ president of baseball operations, spoke candidly about Nola’s injury status and his early-season performance during an interview with Jon Heyman and Joel Sherman at the New York Post Sports. Reflecting on the situation, Dombrowski noted:
“I’ll start from the injury factor, he’s been a traditionally slow starter. So, out of the gate, he wasn’t with the same velocity, a couple of miles an hour dropped, but then he had all of a sudden picked it up, and he had pitched some good games in a row very well. But then, right before his start against Cleveland, in Tampa, the day before he twisted his ankle, they told me about it; they thought, ‘Oh, it’s not too bad, he’ll be fine.'” —Dave Dombrowski, Phillies President of Baseball Operations
“He wasn’t fine and the reality is, it was hurt a little bit worse than what we thought and what Aaron thought too. He’s getting better daily. It’s not like, it’s an imminent return. He could, I think, return on the 30th this Friday. It won’t be then, but I don’t think he’s far behind that, and I do think he’ll continue to pitch very well for us.” —Dave Dombrowski, Phillies President of Baseball Operations
Strong Confidence in Nola Despite Early-Season Challenges
In his most recent start against the St. Louis Cardinals, Aaron Nola endured one of the toughest outings of his professional career, struggling significantly with control. The lingering ankle discomfort played a role as he allowed nine runs on 12 hits during a 14-7 Phillies defeat. Nola’s season stats through nine starts stand at a 1-7 record with a 6.16 ERA, reflecting his struggles on the mound.
Despite this difficult start, Dombrowski expressed unwavering faith in the 31-year-old pitcher, who is entering his 11th season with Philadelphia. He emphasized the team’s cautious approach to Nola’s recovery:
“He’ll pitch great for us, I think. And when he gets back, the time has been a little slower as far as his rehab is concerned. He really did more of a touch-and-feel yesterday. We’re just making sure he gets through this completely. We don’t want him going out there with the sore ankle at all.” —Dave Dombrowski, Phillies President of Baseball Operations
Backup Arms Providing Stability During Nola’s Absence
With Nola sidelined and not at his peak, other pitchers have stepped up to bolster the Phillies’ rotation. Zack Wheeler and Ranger Suarez have continued to perform well, while newcomer Jesus Luzardo has emerged as a reliable backup. Luzardo boasts an undefeated 5-0 record with an impressive 2.15 ERA, helping the team maintain its competitive edge in the league.
Looking Ahead: Anticipation Builds Around Nola’s Return
Aaron Nola’s injury issues have tempered expectations, but the continued support from Phillies management underscores their belief in his ability to rebound strongly. Although an immediate return by the end of May seems unlikely, the team anticipates his comeback soon after, hoping he will restore stability to their pitching staff. As the Phillies push forward in a competitive season, Nola’s recovery and eventual return will be a pivotal factor in their pursuit of success.