Phillies’ Aaron Nola Lands on Injured List with Ankle Sprain

PHILADELPHIA, Pennsylvania — Philadelphia Phillies starting pitcher Aaron Nola has been placed on the 15-day injured list due to a right ankle sprain, the team announced Friday. The move is retroactive to May 15, following a difficult outing where Nola allowed nine runs in a loss to the St. Louis Cardinals.

Manager Rob Thomson stated that Nola injured his ankle while performing agility drills prior to his start against the Cardinals. Despite feeling some improvement, the decision was made to prioritize Nola’s recovery. Thomson indicated that Nola is not expected to miss more than the minimum 15 days.

This season has been challenging for Nola, who has a record of 1-7 and a 6.16 ERA across nine starts. He struggled in his last two outings, letting up at least nine runs in one, and was criticized for his diminished fastball velocity. His average fastball velocity sits at just 91.0 mph, ranking him in the ninth percentile.

In response to Nola’s injury, the team has recalled right-handed pitcher Daniel Robert from Triple-A Lehigh Valley. Robert briefly appeared for the Phillies on Wednesday, where he did not allow any runs in his only inning pitched.

Additionally, prospect Mick Abel will make his major league debut on Sunday to fill Nola’s slot in the rotation. Abel has shown promise in the minors, boasting a 2.53 ERA through his last eight starts at Triple-A, although he has struggled with control in the past.

As the Phillies navigate Nola’s absence, they are optimistic that this break will offer a chance for him to reset mentally and physically, allowing him to return stronger for the remainder of the season.