MLBSep 26
Phillies turn to Nola on short rest as wild-card margin shrinks
Aaron Nola will face Tampa Bay on two days' rest as Philadelphia tries to protect a one-game edge over Arizona amid a prolonged offensive slump.
By OddsListing wire desk
· 2 min read
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Nola gets the call
The Phillies are asking Aaron Nola to make a quick turnaround with their postseason position growing less secure. The right-hander will start against the AL East champion Rays on two days' rest after Philadelphia's NL wild-card advantage over Arizona narrowed to one game entering Saturday. Nola struck out eight in six innings Wednesday but took the loss in a 4-1 defeat to Milwaukee. He enters the Tampa Bay matchup with a 7-11 record and a 4.54 ERA. After skipping his customary Friday bullpen session, Nola may face a limited workload. Mattingly indicated that the outing might not extend much beyond Nola's normal 40-to-50-pitch session between starts. Heavy rain delayed Saturday's game.
Rotation decisions carry playoff consequences
Philadelphia entered Saturday with a magic number of two and a 9-13 September record. Arizona was scheduled to face San Diego on Saturday night. If the race remains unresolved Sunday, the Phillies would need Zack Wheeler, taking him out of consideration for a Game 1 or 2 start in the NL Wild Card Series. Moving Wheeler up a day received only brief consideration, according to Mattingly. Jesús Luzardo remains on the injured list with left shoulder inflammation. He is eligible to return Sunday and could pitch if needed.
Offense leaves little margin
Philadelphia's pitching plans come against the backdrop of a struggling lineup. Friday's 2-0 defeat to Tampa Bay marked the Phillies' 12th shutout loss of the season. They have produced two runs in their last 27 innings and only one homer across their last 55. J.T. Realmuto entered Saturday hitless in his last 32 at-bats, with his average down to.206. Luis Arraez remains out indefinitely with a severely sprained left ankle, prompting a reshuffle that has put Bryce Harper at first base, Bryan De La Cruz in right field and Bryson Stott at second.
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