Aaron Nola showed sharper velo and used all five pitches in his spring debut, signaling improved health and command ahead of the World Baseball Classic. Bettors might favor Nola-related props (quality start, higher strikeout total) or back Italy in his WBC start, given his rebound in form.
Aaron Nola Sharper in Spring Start, Eyes World Baseball Classic
Aaron Nola looked noticeably crisper in his first MLB spring start, averaging 91.7 mph on his four-seam fastball and deploying a full five-pitch mix. The veteran right-hander said he changed his winter routine after a disappointing 2025 and wanted to get all his pitches feeling sharp earlier than usual with the World Baseball Classic on the horizon.
Spring Velocity and Full Pitch Repertoire
Nola worked with his four-seam, two-seam, knuckle-curve, cutter and changeup, emphasizing earlier bullpen work and more long-tossing to ramp up readiness. "I felt crisp," he said. He noted the benefit of starting his preparation sooner, allowing him to throw his pitches quicker and with better feel than last year.
World Baseball Classic Plans and Schedule
Nola will make one more spring training start for the Phillies before joining Team Italy. He expects to start in a March 4 warm-up against Team Canada and then start for Italy against Mexico on March 11 in the final pool game. Taijuan Walker is slated to pitch for Mexico but is not expected to face Nola in that matchup.
Recovery from 2025 Struggles
After a rough 2025 that produced a 6.01 ERA and saw Nola miss three months with an ankle sprain and a fractured rib, he emphasized learning from last season's low points and building on the positives. "Obviously last year wasn't a great year," he said, adding that his body feels good and he's ramping up toward a full season.
Consistency, Command and Pitching Plan
Nola remains focused on command and getting late life on his fastball rather than pure velocity. He acknowledged his game can swing dramatically—capable of long strikeout runs but vulnerable when misses are middle-in—and stressed his plan is to find rhythm with his four-seamer and sinker. "Try to get that late jump on the fastball," he said.
Betting Implications
Nola's improved feel and full pitch mix make him a stronger candidate for pitcher props: consider quality-start markets, over/under strikeout lines, or lower total runs allowed in starts he makes.
For WBC action, bettors might lean toward Italy in the game he starts, or use Nola-specific props in matchups versus Mexico where his sharper form can suppress offense.
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Always factor in opponent lineup and final game-day health updates.
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