Aaron Nola tucked his glove under his arm and walked the dirt path that leads out of the Phillies' minor-league complex. His work in Florida was finished. A new season - his first full one in the majors - awaited.
Nola made his last start in Clearwater, Fla., last week, pitching five innings in a minor-league game in front of a handful of fans. His outing was moved to the back fields because the team wanted to get a closer look at other pitchers. The 22-year-old's spot on the team was well secured. It was a rare moment of seclusion for the pitcher who has soared to the front of a rebuilding team.