Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Aaron Nola faced a challenging comeback on Sunday during his first start in three months, pitching against the Washington Nationals. This Aaron Nola comeback start struggles despite an early strong performance as the Phillies secured an 11-9 victory at home in a high-scoring affair.
Nola, who had been sidelined with an ankle sprain and a rib stress fracture, returned after a lengthy injury layoff. His return was particularly crucial since fellow starter Zack Wheeler was placed on the injured list the day before due to a blood clot near his right shoulder, raising concerns about the Phillies’ rotation depth.
Though Nola appeared sharp in the opening two innings and was supported by a 6-0 lead, the third inning unraveled quickly. He allowed six runs on seven hits, walked one batter, and struck out four before leaving the game after just 2⅓ innings. His final ERA in this outing ballooned to 6.92, illustrating a rocky start to his return.
“Rib and ankle felt good, arm felt really good. I just had trouble stopping it today, either a swing and miss or [hitting] a ball to one of our guys. I didn’t get to the spot [that] I really needed to, and they capitalized on it,”
Nola told MLB.com’s Byron Kerr, reflecting on his performance.
Despite Nola’s difficulties, the Phillies managed to hold on for the win, fueled by contributions from other key players including third baseman Alec Bohm. Bohm, another player making a comeback from a left rib fracture sustained on July 19, delivered a strong offensive performance, going 2-for-4 with a three-run homer. The 2024 All-Star’s timely hitting helped revitalize the team’s offense and maintain their lead.
With Wheeler’s injury potentially sidelining him for the remainder of the season, the Phillies are relying heavily on a fully healthy Aaron Nola to return to his previous dominant form as they pursue another deep postseason run and a possible berth in the World Series.
Mets End Struggling Stretch by Taking Series from Mariners
The New York Mets snapped a losing skid by winning two out of three games in their series against the Seattle Mariners over the weekend. Their series-clinching 7-3 victory took place Sunday night during the Little League Classic in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, marking their first series win since a sweep of the San Francisco Giants at the end of July.
Mark Vientos, the Mets’ third baseman who has faced challenges throughout the season, emerged as the standout player in the series finale. He went 2-for-3 and launched a crucial three-run home run to propel the team’s offense.
Mets manager Carlos Mendoza acknowledged Vientos’ struggles and praised his resilience, stating,
“It hasn’t been easy for him. A lot of ups and downs. Started the year not the way he wanted it or anticipated it, [or how] we anticipated it. And it hasn’t been easy for him the past couple of weeks, with inconsistent playing time. And he plays one game, maybe sits for a few. … It’s not an easy role, but that’s kind of like the messaging with him and some of the other younger players, like, they’ve got to stay ready.”
However, the Mets could face a setback as catcher Francisco Alvarez left the game in the eighth inning after injuring his right thumb sliding into second base. Alvarez, who missed the first month of the season after fracturing his left hamate bone, is scheduled to undergo an MRI to assess the injury’s severity.
Dane Myers Recovers From Defensive Miscue with Game-Tying Homer
Miami Marlins outfielder Dane Myers experienced a memorable game with mixed emotions on Sunday against the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park. In the fourth inning, Myers nearly made an impressive running catch at the warning track but lost control of the ball upon hitting the short right field wall. The ball then cleared the fence for a two-run home run.
Despite the mistake, Myers redeemed himself in the ninth inning by knocking a game-tying home run that helped spark a comeback, leading the Marlins to a 5-3 win over Boston.
“I got the chance to make up for it, and I’m glad I was able to,”
Myers told MLB.com’s Christina DeNicola, expressing relief and pride in his response.
Atlanta Braves Strengthen Playoff Position With Key Series Sweep
The Atlanta Braves have dealt a blow to the Cleveland Guardians‘ playoff hopes after sweeping a three-game series over the weekend on the road. This sweep is Atlanta’s first since June, extending their winning streak to five games.
Jurickson Profar, recently returning from an 80-game suspension for PED use, contributed decisively with a 2-for-4 performance that included a home run in the Braves’ 5-4 victory.
“I had three months where I couldn’t play baseball or face a pitcher [because of my suspension]. It was a grind, and I’m still doing my best every day to try to help the team with the things that I can do,”
Profar said to MLB.com’s Henry Palattella, underlining his commitment to regaining form post-suspension.
Washington Nationals Rally but Fall Short Against Phillies
The Washington Nationals put forth a strong effort despite their 11-9 loss to the Phillies on Sunday. After falling behind 6-0, Washington rallied in the third inning to tie the game and ultimately forced Nola out early in his first start off the injured list.
The Nationals remained competitive late into the game. Down 11-6, Paul DeJong hit a three-run home run in the ninth inning, narrowing the margin and igniting hope for a comeback.
The Phillies responded by bringing in elite reliever Jhoan Duran, who successfully closed out the game to secure the series split.