Don Mattingly Shares Aaron Nola Update During Blue Jays Series

Philadelphia Phillies interim manager Don Mattingly offered an encouraging update on Aaron Nola after the veteran right-hander exited Saturday's game against the Toronto Blue Jays following a frightening line drive off his right knee.

Nola reached a major career milestone before the injury, recording his 2,000th strikeout when he fanned Brandon Valenzuela in the second inning. He became the 94th pitcher in MLB history to reach the mark and one of only 10 to do so in 309 games or fewer.

The scare came in the sixth inning when Jesús Sánchez drilled a 104.8 mph comebacker that struck Nola's right knee before ricocheting into his left leg. Nola attempted two warmup pitches but left the game shortly afterward.

According to Phillies beat reporter Ty Daubert, Mattingly said X-rays came back negative and diagnosed the injury as a right knee contusion. The interim manager added that he expects Nola to avoid the injured list and remain lined up for his next scheduled start Thursday in the Field of Dreams game against the Minnesota Twins.

Nola finished his outing with 5.0 innings, allowing two earned runs while striking out eight. Through 24 starts this season, the veteran owns a 3-9 record with a 5.47 ERA, 129 strikeouts and a 1.45 WHIP across 125 innings.

The positive update is a major relief for a Philadelphia pitching staff that has already been stretched throughout the season. With the back end of the rotation under pressure and the bullpen carrying a significant workload, losing an innings-eater like Aaron Nola would have created another major challenge ahead of Thursday's scheduled start in the Field of Dreams game.

Philadelphia entered Sunday at 62-56, second in the National League East behind the Atlanta Braves. While the division lead remains a challenge, keeping Nola healthy is critical as the Phillies continue their push for a National League Wild Card berth.

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