There is word that the Philadelphia Phillies and Aaron Nola have come to a tentative agreement on a contract extension as talks between the two parties have gained significant momentum, per a report by Bob Nightengale of USA Today:
The Phillies and Aaron Nola have now reached a tentative agreement on a 7-year contract worth $170-$175 million. Nola is undergoing a physical today before the deal becomes official. Talks between the Phillies and agent Joe Longo picked up steam the last two days.
— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) November 19, 2023
The Phillies have sent out feelers on a number of high-profile free agent pitchers this offseason, including highly sought-after Japanese pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto, but Dombrowski has made it clear that re-signing Nola is a priority this offseason.
At the same time, the 30-year-old free agent has been connected to contenders and rivals, the Atlanta Braves and St. Louis Cardinals.
Both parties seemingly see the importance of keeping Aaron Nola in Philadelphia to capitalize on the World Series contending window that has opened over the last couple of years. Aaron Nola has been in the Phillies organization since he was drafted seventh overall out of LSU in the 2014 MLB draft.
Jeff Passan of ESPN reports that the deal is for seven years and worth $172 million:
Right-hander Aaron Nola and the Philadelphia Phillies are in agreement on a seven-year, $172 million contract, sources tell ESPN. The deal is pending a physical. But it is done, and Nola, who has spent his whole career in Philadelphia, will remain with the Phillies.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) November 19, 2023
A contract extension will keep the top end of the starting rotation in place for the 2024 season as they try to continue their recent playoff success and prolong the World Series contention window.