Aaron Nola has delivered for the Philadelphia Phillies many times over the years. They're counting on him again Thursday, but even if the veteran right-handed doesn't come through, there will be plenty of support behind him.
Nola will start Game 3 of the Phillies' NL Wild Card Series against the Atlanta Braves, MLB.com's Todd Zolecki reported Thursday, meaning the team will put its faith in longterm track record over recent results. Despite a history of excellence, Nola went 7-12 with a 4.67 ERA in 33 starts this season. He did improve over the final two months of the regular season, but the fact that the Phillies turn to him in a win-or-go home situation reveals just how dire their rotation -- once their greatest strength -- as turned into a question mark.
Manager Don Mattingly isn't leaving everything up to blind faith in his starter, though.
"All hands on deck (for Game 3)," Mattingly told Zolecki on Wednesday after the Phillies survived with a 4-3 win in Game 2 to extend their season.
That statement implies reliever Jhoan Duran is available. There was some doubt as to whether the All-Star closer would be an option for Game 3 after he pitched two innings and gave up three runs in the Phillies' Game 1 loss. Starters Andrew Painter and Jesus Luzardo both are expected to be available out of the bullpen as well.
How the Phillies fare in Game 3 and beyond will determine how their season is remembered. Their total dumpster fire of 2022 is looked back on fondly thanks to a postseason hot streak that led them to the World Series, whereas objectively superior regular seasons with early playoff ousters in 2023-25 resulted in manager Rob Thomson being fired after a slow start this season. The postseason is fans' final look at their team, and whether Nola and company walk off the field at Truist Park in victory or defeat will spell the lingering image of an infuriating season in South Philly.