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5 Major-league trade chips the Phillies can deal in 2022

By Gabrielle Starr

Sep 29, 2021; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Philadelphia Phillies starting pitcher Aaron Nola (27) walks to the dugout before their game against the Atlanta Braves at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 29, 2021; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Philadelphia Phillies starting pitcher Aaron Nola (27) walks to the dugout before their game against the Atlanta Braves at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports /
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Phillies Aaron Nola
Sep 12, 2021; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia Phillies starting pitcher Aaron Nola (27) reacts after allowing a three run home run against the Colorado Rockies during the fifth inning at Citizens Bank Park. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports /

Aaron Nola

Last, but certainly not least, Aaron Nola.

The rare homegrown player in this organization, Nola was their first-round pick in 2014, and has spent his entire professional career with the Phillies. He’s had some great times here, including an All-Star season in 2018 and two years of receiving NL Cy Young votes.

However, Nola is coming off a rough season, replete with poor pitching and controversial comments about everything from COVID vaccines to the “narrative” surrounding said pitching struggles. Whereas he pitched 200+ innings in 2018 and 2019, he finished the 2021 season with 180 2/3 innings of work, only pitching 6+ innings in 14 of 32 starts.

The righty’s four-year deal runs through 2022 and includes a club option for 2023. The Phillies haven’t traded him in part because they’re hoping he can bounce back, and also because his trade value is lower after how he pitched last season.

Nola is only 28 years old, so there’s time for him to improve. The question is, can he do so in Philadelphia?

Related Story. 10 Excellent and terrible centerfield options for the Phillies. light

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