Aaron Nola on Pitch Mix, Relationship with J.T. Realmuto, and More Phillies Insights…
In the latest Clubhouse Chatter podcast, Philadelphia Phillies starting pitcher Aaron Nola shares insights on various topics, including his evolving pitch repertoire and the significant impact All-Star catcher J.T. Realmuto has had on his career.
The 30-year-old right-hander has been a standout for the Phillies this season, posting a 3.04 ERA, 3.79 FIP, and 1.056 WHIP across 11 starts and 71.0 innings.
Nola has been particularly dominant on the road, recording a 1.82 ERA in five starts (34.2 innings). This includes a complete game shutout against the New York Mets on May 14 and a solid performance at Coors Field in Denver, where he allowed just two earned runs and five hits over 6.0 innings.
A notable statistic this season is the effectiveness of Nola’s fastball. Despite an average velocity of only 91.6 mph, opponents are batting just .117 against it.
Nola discusses the importance of control over velocity and the development of his cutter. He also responds to comments from former Phillies pitcher Zach Eflin, now with the Tampa Bay Rays, who praised Nola’s curveball in a previous Clubhouse Chatter episode.
Eflin, recognized as one of the top 10 pitchers in the American League East by Just Baseball, credited Nola with helping him develop his own curveball and called Nola’s curveball the best in the Major Leagues.
What did Nola say in response?…
Nola also reflects on his six-season partnership with Realmuto. The duo has developed a strong rapport, with Realmuto catching most of Nola’s bullpen sessions.
“It definitely helps,” Nola said about his familiarity with Realmuto. “I know what he does back there, how he calls the game, and how he sets up in different situations. Nothing surprises me anymore.”
For Nola’s full thoughts on Realmuto’s influence on his career, listen to the episode below.
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