Aaron Nola pitching on 2 days’ rest as Phillies make 4th attempt to clinch NL wild card

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — In a desperate bid to secure an NL wild card spot, the Philadelphia Phillies will field Aaron Nola on a day with just two days’ rest against Tampa Bay. Nola, who had struck out eight in his last start, will face the AL East champion Rays after the Phillies lost their last two games, bringing their NL wild-card lead over Arizona to a slim one game.

With Arizona already clinching a wild-card spot, the Phillies need a two-game win to lock up the position. Their magic number remains at two, with the Padres and Chicago Cubs already securing their spots. Nola skipped his customary bullpen session on Friday to prepare for the game against the Rays. Phillies manager Dave Mattingly expressed confidence in Nola's ability to handle the challenge, citing his old-school approach and durability.

The Phillies, however, have struggled in recent weeks, scoring just two runs over their last 27 innings and hitting only once in 55 innings. They have been forced to make lineup adjustments due to injuries, with All-Star lefty Jesús Luzardo still sidelined with shoulder inflammation and starting second baseman Luis Arraez out with a sprained ankle.

Catcher J.T. Realmuto is struggling at the plate, and the Phillies could be in for another tough series if they fail to clinch the wild card.