When Aaron Nola first arrived to the big leagues in 2015, he knew it would take him for him to adjust to the city of Philadelphia, he writes in a 2019 personal essay for The Players’ Tribune.

Originally from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Nola was acclimated to a much different lifestyle than the one he had to become accustomed to in Philadelphia. 

“Before I got drafted, I wasn’t sure what life would be like in a big city. The hobbies I like to do back home, like fishing and hiking, are not really doable in a big city,” he said. 

Within a few years, however, Philly started to feel more and more like home for Nola. 

The city didn’t quite feel so big. 

“I never thought I’d say it, but I actually enjoy living in a big city,” said Nola. 

Philly has become a part of and the right place for him.

Eight years after joining the Philadelphia Phillies and four years after penning the essay, Nola has doubled down on his love for the city.

He recently agreed to sign a 7-year, $192 million deal to return to the team and the City of Brotherly Love for the foreseeable future.

Read more about Aaron Nola’s experiences and adjustment to Philadelphia at The Players’ Tribune.

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