Phillies Taking Big Risk In Waiting To Negotiate With Nola After Season
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When Aaron Nola steps on the mound to face the Texas Rangers Thursday on the opening day of the 2023 Major League Baseball season, it will mark his sixth start to begin the season.
Reaching No. 7 seems up in the air.
That’s because the Philadelphia Phillies and the standout right-hander have stalled negotiations on an extension until after the season.
It’s a huge risk.
Nola is signed for $16 million this season and no one will notice anything different with the stoic pitcher. Nola won’t change.
He’ll take the baseball every fourth or fifth day and compete like he always does. Like he always has.
But the topic will come up time and time again.
“I try not to let anything get to me, no matter what it is,” Nola told reporters. “Go out and try to pitch my game and focus on executing pitches. That’s all I can do.”
Yep, sounds about right.
The Phillies have done such an amazing job at building this roster and signing key players to long-term deals.
Just because Nola isn’t locked up now doesn’t mean it won’t happen.
What if Nola struggles through a subpar season? What if he scuffles with injuries? What if the Phillies miss the playoffs?
These are all factors could impact a mega deal like the one Nola is looking for.
What is he looking for?
The sides seem to be far apart. A four-year, $90 million deal would be logical. Is Nola searching for a six-year, $200 million contract? Those details aren’t out there so all anyone can do is guess.
Waiting until the end of the season, and potentially a deep playoff run, is risky and dangerous. There are so many factors that could alter the future between Nola and the Phillies.
It’s going to be a wild, fascinating ride. And it’s one that will keep Phillies fans on edge until it’s resolved.
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