The Philadelphia Phillies face elimination after dropping the first two games of the National League Division Series to the Los Angeles Dodgers. While both losses were close — by one and two runs — the margin for error has run out as the series shifts to Dodger Stadium for Game 3.
Starters Cristopher Sánchez and Jesús Luzardo both pitched well in their outings, but the Phillies’ offense has failed to provide enough support. Now, with their season hanging in the balance, Aaron Nola will take the mound in hopes of keeping Philadelphia’s postseason alive.
Nola, in his 11th season with the Phillies, has long been a franchise cornerstone, but 2025 has been a difficult year. He went 5-10 with a 6.01 ERA in 17 starts, marking the worst stretch of his career.
Many fans had hoped to see Ranger Suárez start this pivotal game instead. The left-hander enjoyed a strong regular season, finishing 12-8 with a 3.20 ERA and more than 150 strikeouts. His total of 151 strikeouts and 157 1/3 innings were both career highs. Suárez has yet to pitch this postseason but is expected to be available out of the bullpen and could relieve Nola early if needed.
Still, there are reasons for optimism. Nola ended the regular season on a high note, throwing eight innings of one-run ball with nine strikeouts in his final start.
The Phillies will need that version of Nola — and more offensive production — to avoid a sweep and keep their playoff hopes alive in Los Angeles.