Report: Aaron Nola Turned Down More Money From 2 Heated Rivals

Details are emerging that Aaron Nola turned down more money from at least one other team, and massive offers from two serious contenders to re-sign with the Philadelphia Phillies.

Nola signed the first huge free agent deal of the winter, deciding to re-up with Philly for 7 years, $172M. Scott Lauber of the Philadelphia Inquirer reports, however, that the division rival Atlanta Braves topped that offer, and the Los Angeles Dodgers also put up a deal to rival and perhaps surpass what he eventually signed for. The Phillies have also said at least one other team surpassed their offer. 

But Nola let it be known that it was his "strong preference" to remain with the only team he's ever known, having spent his entire nine-year career with the team that drafted hin in the 1st round (7th overall) in 2014. His agent told the Phillies this month that $172M would get it done, and they capitulated. It was reported that the Phillies' offer before the season was $100M compared to Nola's request of $200M at that time.

The 30-year-old has a career 3.72 ERA and 90 wins against 71 losses.

The Phillies also remain in the mix for 25-year-old Japanese ace Yoshinobu Yamamoto, though they're more likely to go for more bullpen help. 

Photo: Rob Schumacher/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK