The Philadelphia Phillies have managed to steady themselves after an uneven start to the 2026 season, climbing back to a .500 record at 25-25. Much of the team’s recent improvement has come from the strong performances of starting pitchers Zack Wheeler and Cristopher Sánchez, who have helped stabilize the rotation during a critical stretch of games. Despite the recent momentum, however, one major concern continues to hang over Philadelphia’s pitching staff — the ongoing struggles of veteran starter Aaron Nola.
Nola, once viewed as one of the franchise’s most dependable arms, has endured another difficult season on the mound. The 32-year-old right-hander is currently pitching under a seven-year, $172 million contract that keeps him in Philadelphia through the 2030 season. While he was once an All-Star and among the most reliable starters in baseball, his recent performances have raised serious concerns about his long-term effectiveness.
Through nine starts this season, Nola has posted a troubling 5.91 ERA across 45.2 innings pitched. His struggles are beginning to place the Phillies in an uncomfortable position as they attempt to remain competitive in the National League playoff race. With each outing, the pressure continues to build on both the player and the organization to find answers before the situation worsens further.
There is growing speculation that the Phillies may eventually have to consider drastic options if Nola’s decline continues. Some believe a temporary move out of the starting rotation or even a brief assignment to the minor leagues could help him reset mentally and mechanically. While sending a pitcher of Nola’s caliber to the minors would once have seemed unimaginable, the idea is no longer out of the question given his recent inconsistency.
Analysts have also pointed to alarming statistical trends that suggest his decline may not simply be a short slump. Nola’s strikeout numbers have decreased significantly while his walk rate has risen. At the same time, opposing hitters are making stronger contact against him on a regular basis. Those issues became even more apparent during his recent outings against the Cincinnati Reds and the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Against Cincinnati, Nola surrendered four earned runs over five innings. That outing came shortly after another rough performance against Pittsburgh in which he allowed six earned runs. Over his last six starts combined, he has been charged with 24 runs, showing little sign of improvement.
One of the biggest problems continues to be the home run ball. Nola has already allowed 18 home runs this season, an alarming total considering the campaign is still in its early stages. Opposing hitters have consistently punished mistakes, leaving Philadelphia with limited confidence whenever he takes the mound.
The Phillies could explore trade possibilities, but moving Nola’s contract would be extremely difficult given both his recent production and the amount of money still owed on the deal. Unlike previous roster moves involving struggling veterans, Philadelphia may not have an easy path to part ways with him.
For now, the organization appears stuck searching for solutions. Whether that means a mechanical adjustment, reduced role, or temporary reset in the minors, the Phillies know they need more from Aaron Nola if they hope to contend for a postseason spot this season.
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