The Philadelphia Phillies are entering a big season for their franchise, as one of the last years of the team's window of contention. But, before the season kicks off, there is a massive tournament with a few Phillies players involved.
The World Baseball Classic is just around the corner, and with Kyle Schwarber, Brad Keller, and Bryce Harper all playing for Team USA, the Phillies have a strong contingent in the tournament.
But, Aaron Nola, according to Ty Daubert of Phillies Nation, will be pitching in the tournament as well. But, unlike that trio, Nola won't be pitching for Team USA. Instead, as Rob Thomson announced, Nola will pitch for Team Italy in the tournament.
Aaron Nola joins WBC on Team Italy roster
"Phillies manager Rob Thomson said that Aaron Nola will pitch for Team Italy in the 2026 WBC during a speech at the @PSWABanquet," Daubert reported.
This is big news, not just for Team Italy, but for the Phillies. Nola is 32 years old and entering his 12th season in the Major Leagues. He's coming off his worst year in the league, with a 6.01 ERA in just 17 starts.
It was the worst season of his MLB career, and a major step back for the right-hander shortly after signing a massive $172 million extension with the Phillies.
Seeing Nola, who dealt with an injury for a lot of 2025, pitch in a big tournament that's not part of the MLB season is a worry for the Phillies.
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Edwin Diaz missed the entire season due to an injury he sustained during the tournament, and ever since, there's been concern about teams' starts playing in the tournament, especially pitchers.
But, with Tarik Skubal (in a contract year), Paul Skenes, Logan Webb, Joe Ryan, and other pitchers all taking the mound in the WBC this year, Nola's inclusion isn't strange.
The Phillies will hope Nola can have a successful WBC, carry it over into the regular season, and put together a strong 2026 campaign. They will need him with Zach Wheeler banged up, and Ranger Suarez now in Boston.
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