Coming into the 2026 MLB season, the Philadelphia Phillies were expected to lean heavily on their starting rotation as the team’s biggest strength.
Since Zack Wheeler returned to the rotation following Taijuan Walker’s release, the group has mostly delivered. Wheeler and Cristopher Sanchez have formed a dominant duo, while Jesus Luzardo has also shown flashes of brilliance.
Andrew Painter and Aaron Nola, however, have produced inconsistent results. Still, there are signs both pitchers may be turning things around, particularly because of adjustments to their pitch mixes.
Nola continued his recent improvement with another strong outing against the San Diego Padres. After allowing just two runs over six innings on May 26, he followed it up with another quality performance on June 2.
The veteran right-hander surrendered only two earned runs on four hits across the outing and once again avoided issuing a walk. The only damage came on a two-run homer by Gavin Sheets, while Nola also recorded eight strikeouts.
One major factor behind the turnaround has been a change in his pitch usage. According to Joseph Cammisa on X, Nola has reduced his reliance on his four-seam fastball and leaned more heavily on his curveball.
Earlier in the season, Nola struggled to consistently locate his fastball, often leaving pitches over the plate where opponents punished them. While the velocity and life on the pitch weren’t as effective as in previous years, his curveball remained one of his best weapons.
By adjusting his pitch mix and featuring the curveball more frequently, Nola has looked far more effective over his last two starts.
If he can continue providing the Phillies with reliable five- or six-inning outings, it could significantly improve the outlook of the rotation moving forward.