What happened: Aaron Nola allowed five hits, struck out eight and walked none over seven innings and 100 pitches. He has a 2.74 ERA with 30 strikeouts and seven walks across 23 innings in four August starts.
Why it matters: Left-handed hitters have slugged .310 against him this month after entering August at .528 for the season. The gains strengthen Philadelphia's rotation outlook, though a 100% strand rate and favorable matchups temper the results.
By the numbers: Nola's walk rate against lefties has fallen from 11.2% to 6.5%, while his strikeout rate has climbed to 32.3%. His four-seam velocity rose from 92.2 mph to 92.7 mph, and his curveball has produced a 41% whiff rate against left-handed hitters in August.
What to watch: His next start will show whether the sharper command and improved velocity hold against a stronger left-handed lineup.