Aaron Nola Nears Rehab Assignment for Phillies

Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Aaron Nola, sidelined since mid-May with a right ankle sprain and rib stress fracture, is on track to begin a rehab assignment next week if he completes another live batting practice session without problems. Nola has struggled this season with a 1-7 record and a 6.16 ERA over nine starts, but is optimistic about returning by late July or early August. His return will force Phillies management to decide which current starter may lose a rotation spot, with Zack Wheeler, Ranger Suárez, and Christopher Sánchez performing well in his absence. Nola's established track record as a durable starter over 11 seasons makes his comeback significant as the Phillies, currently leading the NL East, prepare for a postseason run. The team’s offense remains strong, as shown in a recent 12-5 win over the Yankees, highlighted by Kyle Schwarber's two homers and J.T. Realmuto's three-run shot. The Phillies are hopeful that Nola’s return will further strengthen their rotation for the season’s second half.