The Phillies first round pick from this year's draft is set to make his professional debut for the Advanced 'A' Clearwater Threshers on Monday night against the Lakeland Tigers, Detroit's Advanced 'A' squad. While Clearwater's record sits at a dismal 18-52, Nola's debut will definitely create some buzz on the team that is now home to the recently promoted top prospect, JP Crawford. Clearwater is also where top 10 prospect, Roman Quinn plays. Quinn, formerly a shortstop, is now getting work in the outfield due to the successes of Crawford.
Aaron Nola has already pitched 116 innings this season for LSU, so look for the Phillies to limit his pitch count and innings pitched as the season rolls along.
Nola, originally drafted in 2011 by Toronto but opted to go back to LSU, showcases a two and four seam fast ball to go along with a changeup and a breaking ball as well. Nola is highly touted because of his pitch command, which includes a fastball that tops out at 97mph. He posted 134 strikeouts and 27 walks in 116 1/3 innings this season at LSU.
In three seasons at LSU, the 6-1, 195 pound righty posted a record of 30-6 with a miniscule ERA of 2.09. In his most recent season, his ERA was a 1.47.
Second round pick LHP Matt Imhof and fourth round pick RHP Chris Oliver are each beginning in the Gulf Coast rookie league, and third rounder CF Aaron Brown is beginning in short-season A Williamsport.
Brandon Apter, Publishing Editor for Philliedelphia.com
