Aaron Nola has seen his share of ups and downs in a Phillies uniform, but early in 2025, one issue has refused to go away. After a sluggish start to the season, concerns are mounting about the 31-year-old’s declining velocity and shaky command,

The 31-year-old Nola was 4-1 with a 3.20 ERA through six starts in 2024. He finished 14-8 with a 3.57 ERA, helping the Phillies win the NL East. Nola, who agreed to a $172 million, seven-year contract with Philadelphia in February 2024, has stayed with his usual routine throughout his tough start to this year.

The 29th pitch Aaron Nola threw in the first inning Wednesday night was not competitive, a 91 mph sinker that Wilmer Flores took without hesitation to secure a bases-loaded walk. Nola didn’t show outward disappointment.