The Philadelphia Phillies had an incredible, unexpected 2022 season.
The New York Mets and the Atlanta Braves fought all year long for the NL East title.
Yet the 87-win Phillies were the ones making the World Series.
Baseball can be shocking sometimes.
Once in the Fall Classic, they ended the Houston Astros’ undefeated run by winning Game 1.
The Phillies were up 2-1 after taking the ever-important Game 3, but Houston won three in a row to take the trophy to Texas.
Now, after a truly outstanding postseason run, it’s time for the Phillies to focus on next year.
They are already making moves with next season in mind.
“The Phillies have exercised the club option on RHP Aaron Nola for the 2023 season. Additionally, the Phillies have declined the club option on INF Jean Segura. Finally, RHP Zach Eflin declined his side of the mutual option and is now a free agent,” they tweeted.
The Phillies have exercised the club option on RHP Aaron Nola for the 2023 season. Additionally, the Phillies have declined the club option on INF Jean Segura. Finally, RHP Zach Eflin declined his side of the mutual option and is now a free agent.
— Philadelphia Phillies (@Phillies) November 8, 2022
Nola Will Return, Segura and Eflin Are Now Free Agents
Nola’s decision was a no-brainer.
He was one of the best pitchers in the National League this season, with a brilliant 3.25 ERA in 205 innings pitched.
He struck out a whopping 235 batters.
Segura was a solid, if unspectacular option for the infield: the 32-year-old hit .277/.336/.387.
Eflin found consistency and success after being moved to the bullpen, when his good velocity and wipeout slider played very well.
Both Segura and Eflin will test the free agent market, although there is certainly a chance they return to Philadelphia at a lesser salary depending on their market.
As for Nola, he will keep headlining the Phillies’ underrated rotation together with fellow right-hander Zack Wheeler.
NEXT: Phillies Analyst Has A Big Free Agent Demand
