Philadelphia Phillies Ace Linked to Surprise Contender in Upcoming Free Agency
The Philadelphia Phillies starting rotation may look a little different come the 2024 MLB season.
Ace Aaron Nola is expected to hit free agency after he and the the team were unable to reach an extension ahead of the 2023 MLB season.
Despite conversations between the two parties, a deal was unable to be reached and Nola has been pitching in what has now become his walk year with the only club he has ever known.
While he has posted above career averages in ERA (4.49) and WHIP (1.154), Nola's patented consistency to eat innings and pitch in meaningful games will likely place him square atop a very thin pitching market this winter.
One team who could be interested in him is the Chicago Cubs according to Cubbies Crib.
The Cubs are a surprise contender this season with eyes on a Wild Card spot a few years before their contention window was supposed to open. While they have had a number of bright spots on the roster that have helped put them in this position, one area they need help is their starting rotation.
With Marcus Stroman likely walking out the door, Chicago will be in the market for a new ace to sit atop of what is a very young rotation.
Nola fits that bill.
A veteran presence, a pitcher who still has plenty in the tank and one has an extensive repertoire could be exactly what the Cubs need to get them over the hump from Wild Card contender to the National League Central champions.
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