In a recent roster move announced Friday by the Associated Press from Los Angeles, the Philadelphia Phillies have placed their seasoned starting pitcher, Aaron Nola, on the paternity list.
This administrative decision comes just as the team prepares to kick off a critical three-game weekend series against the formidable Los Angeles Dodgers. Nola, who is 32 years old and currently holds a 5-4 win-loss record alongside a somewhat elevated 5.72 earned run average, was not originally slated to take the mound during this particular series against the Dodgers.
Consequently, his temporary departure is unlikely to disrupt the team’s immediate pitching rotation. Furthermore, the timing offers a subtle advantage: following the Dodgers series, the Phillies have a scheduled off-day, meaning their next contest is not until Tuesday, when they will host the San Diego Padres—a team Philadelphia just recently swept in an impressive road performance.
As a result, Nola will effectively gain at least one extra day of rest and family time beyond the standard paternity leave. To fill the gaps on their active roster, the Phillies have recalled right-handed pitcher Nolan Hoffman and outfielder Steward Berroa from their Triple-A affiliate in Lehigh Valley. In a corresponding move, utility player Otto Kemp has been optioned back to Lehigh Valley to make room for the new arrivals.
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