Philadelphia, PA – November 20, 2023
In a groundbreaking move for the Philadelphia Phillies, co-ace Aaron Nola has committed to a seven-year, $172 million contract, marking the largest deal for a pitcher in Phillies history.
This significant development was disclosed by two individuals with direct knowledge, who spoke on the condition of anonymity due to Nola’s pending physical examination on Sunday in Philadelphia. The official announcement of the deal is set to take place at a press conference on Monday at Citizens Bank Park.
Nola’s return to the Phillies represents the first major free-agent signing of the winter and adds to the team’s roster of players under substantial long-term contracts, with seven individuals currently earning at least $100 million.
Negotiations between the Phillies and Nola encountered challenges in the lead-up to spring training. The initial disparity saw Nola seeking a seven-year, $210 million deal, while the Phillies were offering a six-year, $150 million contract.
However, over the past week, both parties engaged in earnest discussions to bridge the financial gap and secure Nola’s return.
Drafted by the Phillies in the first round of the 2014 draft, the 30-year-old Nola has been a consistent force, never missing a start in six years.
In the recently concluded season, he achieved a 12-9 record with a 4.46 ERA over 193 ⅔ innings, maintaining his impressive streak of striking out at least 200 batters for five consecutive full seasons. With a career record of 90-71 and a 3.72 ERA, Nola’s performance has solidified his status as a cornerstone of the Phillies’ pitching rotation.
Despite receiving more lucrative offers from other teams, including interest from Atlanta and the St. Louis Cardinals, Nola expressed his commitment to the Phillies, turning down competing offers to stay with the team he has called home since the beginning of his career.
The Phillies organization and fans alike welcome Nola’s return, anticipating continued success and a strengthened pitching lineup for the seasons ahead.