The Philadelphia Phillies are facing a significant shake-up in their pitching rotation as Aaron Nola, a cornerstone of their staff, has been placed on the injured list (IL) due to a right ankle sprain. This marks Nola’s first IL stint in nearly eight years, a testament to his remarkable durability. The injury opens the door for Mick Abel, a highly touted prospect, to make his Major League debut. This article delves into the details surrounding Nola’s injury, its impact on the Phillies’ pitching plans, and the exciting opportunity for Abel to showcase his talent on the big stage.
Nola’s absence creates both a challenge and an opportunity for the Phillies. While losing a pitcher of his caliber is undoubtedly a setback, it allows the team to assess their rotation depth and provides a glimpse into the future with Abel. The Phillies are strategically managing their pitching staff, balancing immediate needs with long-term development.
Aaron Nola’s Ankle Sprain
Aaron Nola’s recent injury, a right ankle sprain, has forced the Phillies to place him on the injured list, interrupting his streak of consistent starts since 2018. Nola admitted to feeling discomfort and altered mechanics, leading to back stress. Despite his desire to pitch through it, the Phillies’ management decided to prioritize his long-term health. “I wasn’t able to rotate my foot like I usually do,” Nola explained, highlighting the impact on his pitching motion. This injury sidelines Nola for at least two weeks, potentially impacting his goal of reaching 200 innings pitched in 2025.
The Phillies were aware of Nola’s ankle issue for about a week but chose to keep it under wraps for competitive reasons. Manager Thomson stated, “We didn’t want to say anything, obviously, because we’re giving the opposition a leg up.” This decision raises questions about Nola’s start against the St. Louis Cardinals, where he struggled, allowing nine runs in just 3 2/3 innings. While Nola’s absence is a setback, the team hopes for a swift recovery and return to form.
Mick Abel’s MLB Debut
With Aaron Nola on the IL, Mick Abel, the Phillies’ 2020 first-round pick, is set to make his MLB debut. The 23-year-old right-hander will start Sunday’s game against the Pittsburgh Pirates. This opportunity comes after a strong start to his season at Triple-A Lehigh Valley, where he posted a 2.53 ERA over eight starts. The Phillies have communicated that this will be a one-start assignment, with Abel returning to Triple-A afterward. “The stuff’s always been there,” Thomson noted. “Now he’s throwing strikes. He’s missing bats. His walk rate’s down. He’s just a very confident guy right now. I’m really excited to see him pitch.”
Phillies’ Rotation Depth
The Phillies’ decision to call up Abel highlights their rotation depth. Taijuan Walker could have started, but, inserting Abel allows the Phillies to bump everyone else in the rotation back a day, too. This flexibility is crucial as the season progresses. Abel’s performance in Triple-A showcases his development, with a fastball averaging 95.6 mph and a developing curveball. His ability to throw strikes and maintain consistency has impressed evaluators. “Abel has gone at least six innings in four of his eight starts this season at Triple A. His four-seam fastball has averaged 95.6 mph and even touched 99 mph. His curveball has been a strikeout weapon. “
Andrew Painter and Moisés Chace
As Mick Abel gets his chance, Andrew Painter continues his climb. However, the Phillies faced a blow to their rotation depth with Moisés Chace, a right-handed prospect who had some helium at the end of last season, set to undergo Tommy John surgery. Chace, who turns 22 in June, had pitched this season at Double-A Reading with . The Phillies had deemed him healthy until earlier this week when he threw a pitch and immediately grabbed his elbow. This injury sidelines him for this season and much of 2026, impacting the team’s long-term pitching plans.
Nola’s Expected Return
The Phillies are optimistic that Aaron Nola will return in early June. His prior injury was a strained lower back in 2017. Thomson emphasized Nola’s commitment to the team, stating, “Being available for his team, that’s what he’s all about. He was disappointed, but I don’t think this is going to be much longer than the 15 days.” Nola intends to keep his arm moving during his time on the IL and will travel with the team. Despite the setback, Nola remains focused on returning as soon as possible.
Conclusion
Aaron Nola’s injury and subsequent placement on the IL have presented the Phillies with both a challenge and an opportunity. While the loss of a consistent starter is a setback, it paves the way for Mick Abel’s debut. The Phillies are strategically navigating their rotation, balancing short-term needs with long-term development. Nola’s expected return in early June will be a significant boost, but Abel’s performance will be closely watched as a glimpse into the future of the Phillies’ pitching staff.
This situation highlights the importance of depth in a baseball team’s pitching rotation. The Phillies’ ability to call up a highly regarded prospect like Abel demonstrates their organizational strength. As the season progresses, the performances of both Abel and the returning Nola will be critical to the Phillies’ success.
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