The right-hander, who signed the massive extension in 2024, has seen his performance decline sharply, leaving the team on the hook for an average annual value of over $24.5 million through the 2030 season . While the Phillies have clawed their way back into contention following a disastrous start to the 2026 season, Nola’s struggles remain a significant concern and a potential drag on the team’s championship aspirations .
The downturn has been stark. In 2025, an injury-shortened season saw Nola post a disastrous 6.01 ERA. The struggles have continued into 2026, with the 32-year-old carrying a 5.14 ERA through his first eight starts . More concerning than the results is the erosion of his stuff; analysts note his declining ability to miss bats and his susceptibility to the home run ball, a problem that plagued him in 2024 when he allowed the most homers in the league .
“To put things lightly, the LSU product is definitely one of the worst contracts in baseball, if not honestly the worst,” wrote Zachary Rotman of FanSided, a sentiment that has been echoed across the baseball world . The decline has been so pronounced that Nola is now considered “untradeable,” a label that encompasses his poor performance, the remaining length of his contract, and a no-trade clause that gives him control over his destination .
The issues with Nola’s contract are a stark contrast to the performances of other members of the Phillies’ rotation, which has been one of the best in the National League since May 1 . Zack Wheeler, who signed a three-year, $126 million extension, has been a dominant force, posting a 10-1 record with a 2.13 ERA as the team’s clear ace .
Similarly, Cristopher Sánchez has emerged as an All-Star, and newcomer Jesús Luzardo, who was given a five-year, $135 million extension in March, earned his first All-Star nod after a strong rebound from a slow start . This top-tier performance from other starters underscores the financial and on-field burden created by Nola’s diminished production .
Nola’s contract is not the only expensive one on the Phillies’ books that has produced disappointing returns. The team’s history of signing high-priced veterans to long-term deals has yielded mixed results at best .
-
Nick Castellanos: The Phillies released the outfielder in February 2026, eating the final year of his five-year, $100 million contract .
-
Taijuan Walker: The veteran right-hander was released in April 2026 while in the final year of a four-year, $72 million deal after posting a 9.13 ERA in five starts . President of Baseball Operations Dave Dombrowski acknowledged they tried to trade Walker’s contract “various times” but found no takers .
As of the All-Star break, the Phillies have turned their season around and are in contention. However, the financial weight of Nola’s contract, akin to the dead money from Castellanos and Walker, presents a clear obstacle. With over $150 million in guaranteed money remaining on Nola’s deal through 2030, his performance will be a major factor in determining whether the Phillies can build a sustainable contender around their existing core .
Leave a Reply