Aaron Nola earned his first win of the season Saturday night, pitching six scoreless innings in the Phillies' 7-2 victory over the Arizona Diamondbacks. The right-hander navigated early control issues before settling in.
Nola allowed four hits and struck out eight, delivering his second consecutive strong outing. Dealing with neck tightness before the game, Nola was cleared to start and performed well, throwing his fastest pitches of the season in the first inning.
The Phillies offense provided Nola more run support than he had received in his previous six starts combined. The Phillies score included a two-run home run by Max Kepler in the second inning and a three-run homer from J.T. Realmuto in the third.
Kepler's home run was his third in three consecutive games, all Phillies victories by a comfortable margin. Kepler has been productive against right-handed pitching.
The win was the Phillies' third straight by a wide margin and improved their record to 19-14. They have now won three consecutive series after being swept by the New York Mets.
The team looks for a series sweep Sunday. Rookie Ranger Suarez is scheduled to make his season debut.
Jose Ruiz was placed on the injured list before the game with a neck spasm, resulting in Ranger Suarez being activated sooner than planned.
Realmuto noted Nola's performance was reassuring, especially considering the pregame concern.
"I think all my pitches feel pretty good right now," Nola said. "Getting ahead of the hitters better than I was the first few starts and putting them away when I need to."
