:Austin Nola

Nola was born on December 28, 1989, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.{{cite web |title=Austin Nola Stats, Fantasy & News |url=https://www.mlb.com/player/austin-nola-543592 |website=MLB.com |publisher=MLB Advanced Media |access-date=June 13, 2021 |archive-date=June 11, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210611183207/https://www.mlb.com/player/austin-nola-543592 |url-status=live }} He is the oldest son of A. J. Nola, a remodeling and construction company owner and baseball coach, and Stacie Nola, a part-time secretary. His younger brother Aaron went on to pitch for the Philadelphia Phillies of Major League Baseball (MLB). Their maternal grandfather, Richard Barrios, once served as the sergeant at arms for the Louisiana House of Representatives.{{cite news |last1=Dellenger |first1=Ross |title=For Stacie Nola, baseball is a Mother's Day tradition |url=https://www.theadvocate.com/baton_rouge/sports/lsu/article_a3bbf795-b66b-51b1-83b7-44285e25f5d5.html |access-date=June 13, 2021 |work=The Advocate |date=May 16, 2014 |archive-date=April 18, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190418093838/https://www.theadvocate.com/baton_rouge/sports/lsu/article_a3bbf795-b66b-51b1-83b7-44285e25f5d5.html |url-status=live }} Nola took to baseball from an early age, often playing catch with his father in their backyard after school. A. J. also served as Austin and Aaron's baseball coach throughout their childhood.

While attending Catholic High School in Baton Rouge, Nola played shortstop for the school baseball team.{{cite news |last1=Williams |first1=Darrell |title=Making the switch: Baby Cakes former shortstop Austin Nola becoming more comfortable as a catcher |url=https://www.nola.com/sports/baby_cakes/article_1c163bf8-a76e-5ae5-8dbe-28458bf015fc.html |access-date=June 13, 2021 |work=The Advocate |date=May 19, 2018}} He made the varsity team as a freshman and led the team in hitting that year. As a junior in 2007, Nola was part of Catholic's district championship team.{{cite news |title=Austin Nola Commits to LSU |url=https://catholichigh.org/austin-nola-commits-to-lsu/ |access-date=June 13, 2021 |work=Catholic High School |date=November 15, 2007}} During all four years of his high school baseball career, Nola was an all-state shortstop selection.{{cite news |last1=Williams |first1=Darrell |title=Having reached Triple-A and back in his home state with the Zephyrs, ex-LSU standout Austin Nola is eager to prove himself |url=https://www.theadvocate.com/baton_rouge/sports/lsu/article_8402849e-875b-54dd-a487-e70ff63f9bf0.html |access-date=June 13, 2021 |work=The Advocate |date=July 13, 2015 |archive-date=July 13, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180713074352/https://www.theadvocate.com/baton_rouge/sports/lsu/article_8402849e-875b-54dd-a487-e70ff63f9bf0.html |url-status=live }} As a senior in 2008, Nola was named the Baton Rouge Advocate's Star of Stars in Baseball. He batted .447 that year with 48 runs scored, 42 runs batted in (RBIs), and 13 home runs.{{cite web |title=Austin Nola – 2012 – Baseball |url=https://lsusports.net/sports/baseball/roster/austin-nola/16951 |website=LSU Athletics |date=July 8, 2019 |publisher=Louisiana State University |access-date=June 13, 2021}}

The Colorado Rockies selected Nola in the 48th round of the 2008 MLB Draft, but he chose not to sign with the team, instead committing to play college baseball for Louisiana State University (LSU).{{cite news |title=Mariners select catcher/infielder Austin Nola from Triple-A Tacoma |url=https://www.mlb.com/press-release/mariners-select-catcher-infielder-austin-nola-from-triple-a-tacoma |access-date=June 13, 2021 |work=MLB.com |publisher=MLB Advanced Media |date=June 16, 2019}} Seeking to improve an infield defense that had gone 40 games without a successful double play in 2009, LSU moved junior DJ LeMahieu to second base and made freshman Nola their starting shortstop.{{cite news |last1=Gegenheimer |first1=Mike |title=After eight years in the majors and a Gold Glove,DJ LeMahieu has embraced Paul Mainieri's decision to move him to second base |url=https://www.theadvocate.com/baton_rouge/sports/lsu/article_5e7b457c-4e1e-11e7-b4e5-8bd5e7f01b1a.html |access-date=June 13, 2021 |work=The Advocate |date=June 10, 2017 |archive-date=April 18, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190418130854/https://www.theadvocate.com/baton_rouge/sports/lsu/article_5e7b457c-4e1e-11e7-b4e5-8bd5e7f01b1a.html |url-status=live }} Nola played well at the position and batted .240 with 27 runs, 18 RBIs, and three home runs during the regular season. In the 2009 College World Series, Nola batted .250 with four runs and one home run. He boasted a perfect 1.000 fielding percentage, making no errors in 24 chances as LSU won its sixth championship.{{cite news |last1=Constant |first1=Andrew |title=Nola returns to Omaha with Zephyrs |url=https://www.milb.com/news/gcs-133786612 |access-date=June 13, 2021 |work=MiLB.com |publisher=MLB Advanced Media |date=June 30, 2015}}

Returning to LSU as a sophomore in 2010, Nola started all 63 regular-season games at shortstop, batting .320 with 50 runs, 52 RBIs, and five home runs. That year, LSU beat Alabama for their third straight Southeastern Conference (SEC) championship title, and Nola was named the tournament Most Valuable Player (MVP).{{cite news |title=LSU wins third straight championship |url=https://www.espn.com/college-sports/news/story?id=5235204 |access-date=June 13, 2021 |work=ESPN.com |agency=Associated Press |date=May 30, 2010}} Later that year, Nola played collegiate summer baseball for the Harwich Mariners of the Cape Cod Baseball League.{{cite web|url=https://baseball.pointstreak.com/player.html?playerid=56546&seasonid=239 |title=

1. 6 Austin Nola (2010) |publisher=pointstreak.com |access-date=August 12, 2021}}{{cite news |title=Cape League: Harwich's Nola pitches gem |url=https://www.capecodtimes.com/article/20120620/Sports/120619734 |access-date=June 13, 2021 |work=Cape Cod Times |date=June 20, 2012}} He returned to LSU as a junior in 2011, starting as the shortstop in all 56 games. On April 10, while playing against Arkansas, Nola hit a grand slam in the sixth inning of an eventual 5–4 defeat.{{cite news |title=College Baseball: Razorbacks down LSU |url=https://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/sports/pro/story/2011/apr/11/college-baseball-razorbacks-down-lsu/251315/ |access-date=June 15, 2021 |work=Texarkana Gazette |agency=Associated Press |date=April 10, 2011}} In addition to being the first grand slam of Nola's career, it was the only one by an LSU player during the 2011 season.

Nola played for Harwich again during the 2011 season, batting .217 in 39 games with 15 RBIs and 17 runs scored.{{cite web|url=https://baseball.pointstreak.com/player.html?playerid=142741&seasonid=532 |title=#6 Austin Nola (2011) |publisher=pointstreak.com |access-date=August 12, 2021}} Both Nola and his younger brother were selected by the Toronto Blue Jays in the 2011 MLB Draft, but both brothers chose LSU over signing with the team. Austin returned to finish his senior year, while Aaron was starting as a freshman.{{cite news |last1=Montemurro |first1=Meghan |title=How to explain Aaron Nola's success? Start with a trip to Baton Rouge to meet his family |url=https://theathletic.com/427350/2018/07/13/how-to-explain-aaron-nolas-success-start-with-a-trip-to-baton-rouge-to-meet-his-family/ |access-date=March 27, 2021 |work=The Athletic |date=July 13, 2018 |archive-date=January 29, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210129184458/https://theathletic.com/427350/2018/07/13/how-to-explain-aaron-nolas-success-start-with-a-trip-to-baton-rouge-to-meet-his-family/ |url-status=live |url-access=subscription}} He collected his second career grand slam on April 13, 2012, in a 10–2 victory over Alabama. LSU made it through several regional rounds of the 2012 NCAA Division I baseball tournament but fell to the Stony Brook Seawolves in their Cinderella run to the College World Series.{{cite news |last1=Kubena |first1=Brooks |title=Remember the 'Shock the World' Stony Brook Seawolves? On a season they'll never forget |url=https://www.theadvocate.com/baton_rouge/sports/lsu/article_19f01fbc-821b-11e9-8a6c-d3ee8a44760f.html |access-date=June 15, 2021 |work=The Advocate |date=May 29, 2019 |archive-date=November 8, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201108020624/https://www.theadvocate.com/baton_rouge/sports/lsu/article_19f01fbc-821b-11e9-8a6c-d3ee8a44760f.html |url-status=live }} At the end of his college career, Nola was awarded the Wally Pontiff Academic Achievement Award as the top scholar-athlete on LSU's baseball team. He batted .299 during his senior season, with four home runs and 43 RBIs in 64 games.

The Miami Marlins selected Nola in the fifth round, 167th overall, of the 2012 MLB Draft.{{cite news |title=Nola, Goody selected during Day 2 of MLB Draft |url=https://www.wafb.com/story/18712568/nola-goody-selected-during-day-2-of-mlb-draft/ |access-date=June 14, 2021 |work=WAFB |date=June 6, 2012 |archive-date=June 9, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120609072043/http://www.wafb.com/story/18712568/nola-goody-selected-during-day-2-of-mlb-draft |url-status=live }} He signed with the team shortly thereafter, for a $75,000 signing bonus.{{cite news |last1=Beile |first1=Kelly Anne |title=Aaron and Austin Nola host 'Strike Out ALS' at Red Stick Social on Jan. 30 |url=https://www.brproud.com/news/local-news/aaron-and-austin-nola-host-strike-out-als-at-red-stick-social-on-jan-30/ |access-date=June 14, 2021 |work=WVLA-TV |date=January 23, 2020 |archive-date=February 26, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210226052003/https://www.brproud.com/news/local-news/aaron-and-austin-nola-host-strike-out-als-at-red-stick-social-on-jan-30/ |url-status=live }} He was initially assigned to the Low–A Jamestown Jammers of the New York–Penn League, but, after only a few weeks there, Nola was promoted to the Single–A Greensboro Grasshoppers of the South Atlantic League. Nola played in 65 games during his rookie season, batting .211 with 48 hits, one home run, and 18 RBIs.{{cite news |last1=Lyons |first1=Lori |title=Former LSU shortstop Nola working hard on improving skills |url=https://www.nola.com/sports/article_3283877a-b3da-5a1a-b84c-89cb5c1685c9.html |access-date=June 14, 2021 |work=The Advocate |date=April 4, 2013}} In 2013, Nola played with the Jupiter Hammerheads of the High–A Florida State League. In 489 at bats, he batted .232 with one home run, 40 RBIs, and 96 hits.{{cite web |title=Austin Nola Amateur, College, Minor, Fall & Winter Leagues Stats |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/register/player.fcgi?id=nola--001aus |website=Baseball-Reference.com |access-date=June 15, 2021}}

File:Austin Nola on June 30, 2015.jpg in 2015]]

In 2014, Nola was assigned to the Double–A Jacksonville Suns of the Southern League. In 134 games as Jacksonville's shortstop, Nola hit .259 with one home run and 53 RBIs.{{cite news |last1=Rockwell |first1=Curtis |title=After promotion to New Orleans, Austin Nola will wear last name on front and back of jersey |url=https://www.gulflive.com/sports/2015/06/after_promotion_to_new_orleans.html |access-date=June 15, 2021 |work=Press-Register |date=June 29, 2015}} In the postseason, Nola helped take Jacksonville to their sixth Southern League championship, scoring two runs and driving in another in a 6–1 victory over the Chattanooga Lookouts to sweep the final series in three games.{{cite news |title=Jacksonville Suns bring home Southern League crown with 6–1 win over Chattanooga Friday night |url=https://www.jacksonville.com/sports/jacksonville-suns/2014-09-12/story/jacksonville-suns-look-clinch-southern-league-championship |access-date=June 15, 2021 |work=The Florida Times-Union |date=September 12, 2014 |archive-date=June 25, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150625070905/http://jacksonville.com/sports/jacksonville-suns/2014-09-12/story/jacksonville-suns-look-clinch-southern-league-championship |url-status=live }}{{cite web|url=https://www.statscrew.com/minorbaseball/standings/l-SOUL/y-2014|title=2014 Southern League|website=Stats Crew|access-date=April 21, 2021}} After the conclusion of the 2014 minor league season, Nola was assigned to the Salt River Rafters of the Arizona Fall League, alongside five other Marlins prospects.{{cite news |title=Haines at the helm in Arizona Fall League |url=https://www.milb.com/news/gcs-97737904 |access-date=June 15, 2021 |work=MiLB.com |publisher=MLB Advanced Media |date=October 6, 2014}} He played in 13 games for Salt River, batting .298 with six RBIs and nine runs. Although Nola had hoped to begin the 2015 season with the Triple–A New Orleans Zephyrs, the crowded Zephyrs infield meant that he returned to Jacksonville at the start of the year.{{cite news |last1=Dabe |first1=Christopher |title=LSU baseball product Austin Nola deserves Triple-A promotion in 2015, Zephyrs manager says |url=https://www.nola.com/zephyrs/index.ssf/2015/04/lsu_austin_nola_zephyrs_2015.html |access-date=June 15, 2021 |work=The Times-Picayune/The New Orleans Advocate |date=April 7, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304052129/https://www.nola.com/zephyrs/index.ssf/2015/04/lsu_austin_nola_zephyrs_2015.html |archive-date=March 4, 2016}} He was called up to the Zephyrs on June 28, after infielder Miguel Rojas and outfielder Cole Gillespie received major league promotions.{{cite news |last1=Grubbs |first1=Tim |title=New Orleans Zephyrs add former LSU star Austin Nola |url=http://www.nola.com/zephyrs/index.ssf/2015/06/new_orleans_zephyrs_add_austin.html |access-date=June 15, 2021 |work=The Times-Picayune/The New Orleans Advocate |date=June 28, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150914204059/http://www.nola.com/zephyrs/index.ssf/2015/06/new_orleans_zephyrs_add_austin.html |archive-date=September 14, 2015}} Because the Zephyrs wore the abbreviation "NOLA" on the front of their jerseys, short for "New Orleans, Louisiana", Nola's name appeared on both the front and back of his Zephyrs uniform. He played 61 games at Triple A in 2015, batting .280 with 18 RBIs and 18 runs scored.

Nola returned to the Zephyrs in 2016, serving as the starting shortstop and the second batter in the batting order. He also spent time at third base, and practiced at second base to diversify his infield repertoire.{{cite news |last1=Rome |first1=Chandler |title=Austin Nola, the New Orleans Zephyrs' 'captain,' is paving his professional path with lessons learned at LSU |url=https://www.theadvocate.com/baton_rouge/sports/lsu/article_15843080-4baf-11e6-886c-27514dcb73e5.html |access-date=June 15, 2021 |work=The Advocate |date=July 16, 2016}} Nola batted .261 that season, with six home runs and 44 RBIs in 372 at bats. During the 2016 season, Nola worried that his career was stalling and that he was not on the way to the major leagues. The Zephyrs' hitting coach, Paul Phillips, suggested that Nola transition from shortstop to catcher, and he rejoined the Arizona Fall League in order to learn the new position.{{cite news |last1=Brock |first1=Corey |title=How Austin Nola broke through |url=https://theathletic.com/1929150/2020/07/15/how-austin-nola-broke-through/ |access-date=June 15, 2021 |work=The Athletic |date=July 15, 2020 |archive-date=September 2, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200902191344/https://theathletic.com/1929150/2020/07/15/how-austin-nola-broke-through/ |url-status=live |url-access=subscription}} In eight games with the Mesa Solar Sox, Nola batted .273, with two home runs and five runs scored. That November, the Marlins added Nola to their expanded roster in order to protect him from the Rule 5 draft.{{cite news |last1=Mayo |first1=Jonathan |title=Teams set 40-man rosters ahead of Rule 5 Draft |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/prospects-added-to-40-man-or-exposed-to-rule-5-c208914172 |access-date=June 15, 2021 |work=MLB.com |publisher=MLB Advanced Media |date=November 18, 2016 |archive-date=January 16, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210116160932/https://www.mlb.com/news/prospects-added-to-40-man-or-exposed-to-rule-5-c208914172 |url-status=live }}

During the 2016–17 offseason, Nola received private instruction from his brother on how to better his catching abilities through communication with pitchers. His ability to control the game from behind the plate impressed coaches during spring training, and Nola began the season on the Marlins' 40-man roster for the first time in his career.{{cite news |last1=Spencer |first1=Clark |title=Baseball-smart Marlin turns to 'tools of ignorance' |url=https://www.miamiherald.com/sports/spt-columns-blogs/fish-bytes/article136089468.html |access-date=June 15, 2021 |work=Miami Herald |date=March 2, 2017 |archive-date=April 19, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190419045818/https://www.miamiherald.com/sports/spt-columns-blogs/fish-bytes/article136089468.html |url-status=live }} Nola spent the entire 2017 season behind the plate. He started with the Double A Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp, playing 54 games with them before receiving a promotion to which had changed its name from the Zephyrs to the Baby Cakes.{{cite news |last1=Dabe |first1=Christopher |title=Austin Nola, former LSU baseball player, finds comfort in position change |url=https://www.nola.com/archive/article_6306ba98-7b31-5c53-a04d-3919136f076b.html |access-date=June 15, 2021 |work=The Times-Picayune/The New Orleans Advocate |date=April 13, 2018}} Between the two teams, Nola batted .233 in 2017, with three home runs and 31 RBIs. Although Nola began the 2018 season on the Marlins' roster, he was designated for assignment on March 29, and was placed on waivers in order to join the Baby Cakes. There, he served as the team's starting catcher and bottom-of-the-order batter.{{cite news |last1=Dabe |first1=Christopher |title=Austin Nola, former LSU baseball player, rejoins Baby Cakes before opener |url=https://www.nola.com/archive/article_f3f041b2-b74b-579f-9c2b-3b472a947830.html |access-date=June 15, 2021 |work=The Times-Picayune/The New Orleans Advocate |date=June 16, 2019}} He played 69 minor league games that season, batting .279 with two home runs and 32 RBIs. Nola became a free agent at the end of the season.{{cite news |last1=Seidman |first1=Corey |title=Aaron Nola's brother traded to the National League |url=https://www.nbcsports.com/philadelphia/phillies/austin-nola-traded-padres-aaron-nola |access-date=June 15, 2021 |work=NBC Sports Philadelphia |date=August 30, 2020 |archive-date=November 28, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201128232617/https://www.nbcsports.com/philadelphia/phillies/austin-nola-traded-padres-aaron-nola |url-status=live }}

Nola signed a minor league contract with the Seattle Mariners on November 9, 2018.{{cite news |title=Mariners' Austin Nola: Signs deal with Seattle |url=https://www.cbssports.com/fantasy/baseball/news/mariners-austin-nola-signs-deal-with-seattle/ |access-date=June 14, 2021 |work=CBS Sports |date=November 9, 2018}} He opened the season with the Triple-A Tacoma Rainiers of the Pacific Coast League, who used him as a utility player. In his first 25 games, Nola played 15 at catcher, eight at first base, and two at third base.{{cite news |last1=Smith |first1=Lauren |title=Tacoma's most versatile player hopes his most recent position gives him a ticket to the majors |url=https://www.thenewstribune.com/sports/mlb/seattle-mariners/article230154074.html |access-date=June 14, 2021 |work=The News Tribune |date=May 8, 2019 |archive-date=September 5, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200905123644/https://www.thenewstribune.com/sports/mlb/seattle-mariners/article230154074.html |url-status=live }} He was called up to the Mariners on June 16, 2019, and made his major league debut the same day. He started the 6–3 victory over the Oakland Athletics at first base, a position that had been left vacant after the Mariners traded Edwin Encarnacion to the New York Yankees, and recorded his first hit in the third inning of the game.{{cite news |last1=Haft |first1=Chris |title=Nola joins Mariners, ending long Minors journey |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/austin-nola-called-up-to-mariners |access-date=June 14, 2021 |work=MLB.com |publisher=MLB Advanced Media |date=June 16, 2019 |archive-date=June 17, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190617012212/https://www.mlb.com/news/austin-nola-called-up-to-mariners |url-status=live }} His first major league home run came later that month, a solo shot against Wade Miley of the Houston Astros on June 28. The Astros went on to win the game 2–1 in extra innings.{{cite news |last1=Rome |first1=Chandler |title=Yuli Gurriel's homer in 10th lifts Astros past Mariners |url=https://www.houstonchronicle.com/sports/astros/article/Yuli-Gurriel-s-homer-in-10th-lifts-Astros-past-14060495.php |access-date=June 14, 2021 |work=Houston Chronicle |date=June 28, 2019 |archive-date=July 4, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190704220713/https://www.houstonchronicle.com/sports/astros/article/Yuli-Gurriel-s-homer-in-10th-lifts-Astros-past-14060495.php |url-status=live }} Nola finished the season with a .269 batting average, including 10 home runs and 31 RBIs, in 267 at bats for the Seattle Mariners. He played a variety of positions for the team, spending most of his time at first base, with appearances at second and third base, catcher, and left and right field.{{cite web |title=Austin Nola Stats |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/players/n/nolaau01.shtml |website=Baseball-Reference.com |access-date=June 14, 2021 |archive-date=June 9, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210609183957/https://www.baseball-reference.com/players/n/nolaau01.shtml |url-status=live }}

After Tom Murphy broke one of the metatarsal bones in his left foot prior to opening day, Nola was chosen as the Mariners' starting catcher for the 2020 season, which began on July 24, 2020, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Joe Hudson was named as Nola's backup.{{cite news |last1=Divish |first1=Ryan |title=Analysis: Breaking down the Mariners' 2020 opening-day roster by position group |url=https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/mariners/analysis-breaking-down-the-mariners-2020-opening-day-roster-by-position-group/ |access-date=June 14, 2021 |work=The Seattle Times |date=July 24, 2020 |archive-date=September 27, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200927113300/https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/mariners/analysis-breaking-down-the-mariners-2020-opening-day-roster-by-position-group/ |url-status=live }} In the first month of the season, Nola was a consistently strong hitter for the Mariners, with five home runs, 17 RBIs, and nine multi-hit games in his first 25 appearances. He also grew more comfortable behind the plate, telling reporters, "I like getting back there. I learn so much from being back there a lot."{{cite news |last1=Smith |first1=Lauren |title=A 'self-made big leaguer,' catcher Austin Nola is one of Mariners' most productive players |url=https://www.thenewstribune.com/sports/mlb/seattle-mariners/article245273980.html |access-date=June 14, 2021 |work=The News Tribune |date=August 26, 2020 |archive-date=September 3, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200903214543/https://www.thenewstribune.com/sports/mlb/seattle-mariners/article245273980.html |url-status=live }} In 29 games with the Mariners in 2020, Nola batted .306 with five home runs and 19 RBIs.

File:Austin Nola, 8.11.21.jpg

On August 30, 2020, the Mariners traded Nola, as well as pitchers Dan Altavilla and Austin Adams, to the San Diego Padres, in exchange for infielder Ty France, outfielder Taylor Trammell, pitcher Andrés Muñoz, and catcher Luis Torrens. The trade was part of a larger series of deadline moves by Padres general manager A. J. Preller, who aimed to take the team to its first playoff appearance in 14 seasons.{{cite news |last1=Cassavell |first1=AJ |title=Padres, Mariners complete 7-player deal |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/padres-mariners-trade-taylor-trammell-austin-nola |access-date=June 14, 2021 |work=MLB.com |publisher=MLB Advanced Media |date=August 31, 2020 |archive-date=December 20, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201220215537/https://www.mlb.com/news/padres-mariners-trade-taylor-trammell-austin-nola |url-status=live }} That postseason, the Padres appeared in the 2020 National League Wild Card Series, facing the St. Louis Cardinals. In the final match of the three-game series, the Padres played a bullpen game,{{efn|The term refers to a contemporary practice in which, rather than a traditional game that utilizes a multi-inning starting pitcher, a series of relievers combine to pitch the entire game.{{cite news |last1=Diamond |first1=Jared |title=Bullpen Day Turns Into a Winning Formula in Baseball |url=https://www.wsj.com/amp/articles/bullpen-day-turns-into-a-winning-formula-in-baseball-1537367097 |access-date=September 12, 2021 |work=The Wall Street Journal |date=September 19, 2018}}}} and Nola became the first MLB catcher to backstop nine pitchers through a postseason shutout, taking the team to the 2020 National League Division Series (NLDS).{{cite news |last1=Keown |first1=Tim |title=Padres catcher Austin Nola's long journey to the NLDS |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/30064643/padres-catcher-austin-nola-long-journey-nlds |access-date=June 14, 2021 |work=ESPN.com |date=October 8, 2020 |archive-date=November 24, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201124181712/https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/30064643/padres-catcher-austin-nola-long-journey-nlds |url-status=live }} There, the Los Angeles Dodgers swept the Padres in a three-game series.{{cite news |last1=Castillo |first1=Jorge |title=Dodgers sweep Padres in NLDS behind stellar pitching and offense |url=https://www.latimes.com/sports/dodgers/story/2020-10-08/dodgers-sweep-padres-in-nlds-behind-stellar-pitching-and-offense |access-date=June 14, 2021 |work=Los Angeles Times |date=October 8, 2020 |archive-date=June 6, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210606192803/https://www.latimes.com/sports/dodgers/story/2020-10-08/dodgers-sweep-padres-in-nlds-behind-stellar-pitching-and-offense |url-status=live }} After the season ended, Nola revealed that he had fractured his foot on a foul ball about a week after the trade was finalized, but he had continued playing through the injury.{{cite news |last1=Lin |first1=Dennis |title=After playing hurt, Austin Nola could make an even bigger impact on Padres |url=https://theathletic.com/2417897/2021/03/01/padres-austin-nola-catcher-foot-fracture/ |access-date=June 14, 2021 |work=The Athletic |date=March 1, 2021 |archive-date=March 1, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210301150918/https://theathletic.com/2417897/2021/03/01/padres-austin-nola-catcher-foot-fracture/ |url-status=live |url-access=subscription}} In the 48 games which he caught, pitchers posted a 2.50 earned run average (ERA), the lowest among all team catchers. Offensively, Nola batted .273 in 161 at bats with the Padres that year, including seven home runs, 28 RBIs, and 24 runs scored.{{cite news |last1=Sanders |first1=Jeff |title=Padres roster review: Austin Nola |url=https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/sports/padres/story/2021-01-19/padres-roster-review-austin-nola |access-date=June 14, 2021 |work=The San Diego Union-Tribune |date=January 19, 2021 |archive-date=March 5, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210305045717/https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/sports/padres/story/2021-01-19/padres-roster-review-austin-nola |url-status=live }}

During spring training in 2021, Nola fractured the middle finger of his left hand while attempting to catch a foul tip.{{cite news |last1=Cassavell |first1=AJ |title=Austin Nola fractures finger, OD status TBD |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/austin-nola-fractures-finger |access-date=June 14, 2021 |work=MLB.com |publisher=MLB Advanced Media |date=March 14, 2021 |archive-date=March 25, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210325002355/https://www.mlb.com/news/austin-nola-fractures-finger |url-status=live }} He missed the first month of the season, with backup catchers Victor Caratini and Luis Campusano filling in behind the plate until Nola was reactivated on April 27.{{cite news |last1=Lin |first1=Dennis |title=What Austin Nola's return means for the Padres and their catching position |url=https://theathletic.com/2553738/2021/04/29/what-austin-nolas-return-means-for-the-padres-and-their-catching-position/ |access-date=June 14, 2021 |work=The Athletic |date=April 29, 2021 |url-access=subscription}} After playing only 18 games upon his return, Nola was sidelined again, this time with a sprained knee.{{cite news |last1=Cassavell |first1=AJ |title=Catcher Nola headed to IL with knee sprain |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/austin-nola-to-injured-list-with-knee-injury |access-date=June 14, 2021 |work=MLB.com |publisher=MLB Advanced Media |date=May 27, 2021 |archive-date=June 7, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210607051243/https://www.mlb.com/news/austin-nola-to-injured-list-with-knee-injury |url-status=live}} Webster Rivas was called up from Triple-A in Nola's place.{{cite news |last1=Acee |first1=Kevin |title=Padres notes: Popular Rivas replaces Nola; Machado eases back into starting; bullpen bolstered |url=https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/sports/padres/story/2021-05-28/padres-notes-webster-rivas-austin-nola-injured-manny-machado-dh-nick-ramirez |access-date=June 14, 2021 |work=The San Diego Union-Tribune |date=May 28, 2021 |archive-date=May 28, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210528235238/https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/sports/padres/story/2021-05-28/padres-notes-webster-rivas-austin-nola-injured-manny-machado-dh-nick-ramirez |url-status=live }} Nola began practicing again at the start of July,{{cite news |last1=Sanders |first1=Jeff |title=Padres notes: Nola's out through All-Star break; Pagán's bat; Lamet's next steps |url=https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/sports/padres/story/2021-07-05/padres-austin-nola-emilio-pagan-dinelson-lamet |access-date=July 7, 2021 |work=The San Diego Union-Tribune |date=July 5, 2021}} and started behind the plate again on July 28 for a game against the Oakland Athletics.{{cite news |last1=Sanders |first1=Jeff |title=Padres pregame: Frazier at second base, Hosmer not in lineup as trade talk swirls |url=https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/sports/padres/story/2021-07-28/padres-rangers-adam-frazier-eric-hosmer-texas-rangers-joey-gallo |access-date=July 29, 2021 |work=The San Diego Union-Tribune |date=July 28, 2021}} Nola faced his brother for the first time in their respective MLB careers on August 21, when the Padres played the Phillies. Austin struck out swinging on three consecutive fastball pitches from Aaron.{{cite news |last=Nesbitt |first=Andy |title=Phillies pitcher Aaron Nola struck out his older brother, Austin, and their dad had a classic reaction |url=https://ftw.usatoday.com/lists/aaron-nola-strikes-out-brother-austin-nola-dad-has-great-reaction |work=USA Today |date=August 22, 2021 |access-date=October 4, 2021}} Nola's injury-ridden season came to an end on September 24, when he was shut down to undergo thumb surgery from an injury sustained in a home plate collision with Brandon Belt of the San Francisco Giants. Prior to 2021, Nola had never gone on the injured list in either the minor or the major leagues; that season, his finger, knee, and thumb injuries limited Nola to only 56 games.{{cite news |last=Cassavell |first=AJ |title=Padres lose Nola for season (thumb surgery) |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/austin-nola-to-undergo-season-ending-thumb-surgery |work=MLB.com |publisher=Advanced Media Group |date=September 24, 2021 |access-date=October 4, 2021}} He batted .272 in the games he did play, with two home runs and 29 RBIs in 173 at bats.

During Game 2 of the 2022 National League Championship Series, Austin and Aaron Nola became the first pair of brothers in Major League Baseball postseason history to face each other as pitcher and batter.{{cite news |last=McEvoy |first=Colin |title=The Ultimate Sibling Rivalry: 8 Sets of Brothers Who Faced Off in Sports Championships |work=Biography |date=February 9, 2023 |url=https://www.biography.com/athletes/a42805051/brothers-who-have-faced-off-in-championships |accessdate=February 12, 2023}}

On January 13, 2023, Nola agreed to a one-year, $2.35 million contract with the Padres, avoiding salary arbitration.{{Cite web|url=https://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2023/01/2023-mlb-arbitration-tracker.html|title=2023 MLB Arbitration Tracker|access-date=January 13, 2023|website=MLBTradeRumors}} He was hit in the face by a pitch during spring training, breaking his nose.{{Cite web|url=https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/sports/padres/story/2023-03-22/padres-notes-austin-nola-easing-back-darvishs-schedule|title=Padres notes: Austin Nola easing back after breaking nose; Yu Darvish expected back Thursday|date=March 23, 2023|website=San Diego Union-Tribune}} He cleared concussion protocols and was on San Diego's Opening Day roster. After batting .146 in 130 at bats, the Padres optioned Nola to El Paso. He batted .185 in eight games before being reexamined for concussion symptoms. Nola was diagnosed with oculomotor dysfunction.{{cite web|url=https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/sports/padres/story/2023-09-02/padres-catcher-austin-nola-on-the-road-to-recovery-following-diagnosis-of-vision-issue|title=Padres catcher Austin Nola 'on the road to recovery' following diagnosis of eye-movement issue|first=Jeff|last=Sanders|work=San Diego Union-Tribune|date=September 2, 2023|accessdate=October 4, 2023}} He was non-tendered and became a free agent on November 17.

On January 5, 2024, Nola signed a minor league contract with the Milwaukee Brewers organization. {{Cite web |last=Farkas |first=Brady |date=2024-01-05 |title=Milwaukee Brewers Sign Veteran Backstop to Minor League Deal |url=https://www.si.com/fannation/mlb/fastball/news/milwaukee-brewers-sign-former-seattle-mariners-and-san-diego-padres-catcher-austin-nola-to-minor-league-deal |access-date=2024-01-05 |website=Fastball |language=en}} However, he was released by the Brewers on February 22{{Cite web|url=https://www.mlb.com/news/austin-nola-agrees-to-one-year-contract-with-royals|title=Royals improve catching depth, ink Nola to 1-year deal|website=MLB.com}} and signed a one-year major league contract with the Kansas City Royals the following day.{{Cite web|url=https://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2024/02/royals-austin-nola-agree-to-minor-league-deal.html|title=Royals Sign Austin Nola To Major League Deal|date=February 23, 2024|website=MLB Trade Rumors}} Nola was optioned to the Triple–A Omaha Storm Chasers to begin the 2024 season.{{Cite web|title=Nick Pratto, Drew Waters, Austin Nola assigned to minors|url=https://www.royalsreview.com/2024/3/22/24109046/nick-pratto-drew-waters-austin-nola-assigned-to-minors|access-date=March 22, 2024|website=royalsreview.com|date=March 22, 2024 |language=en}} On August 31, Nola was designated for assignment by the Royals.{{Cite web|title=Royals Designate Austin Nola, CJ Alexander For Assignment|url=https://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2024/08/royals-designate-austin-nola-cj-alexander-for-assignment.html|access-date=August 31, 2024|website=mlbtraderumors.com|language=en}} He cleared waivers and was sent outright to Omaha on September 3.{{Cite web|title=Royals' Austin Nola: Outrighted to Triple-A|url=https://www.cbssports.com/fantasy/baseball/news/royals-austin-nola-outrighted-to-triple-a/|access-date=September 4, 2024|website=cbssports.com|date=September 4, 2024 |language=en}} In 55 games for Omaha, Nola batted .174/.260/.298 with five home runs and 24 RBI.

On December 8, 2024, Nola signed a minor league contract with the Colorado Rockies.{{Cite web|title=Rockies Sign Austin Nola To Minors Deal|url=https://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2024/12/rockies-sign-austin-nola-to-minors-deal.html|access-date=December 8, 2024|website=mlbtraderumors.com|date=December 8, 2024 |language=en}}

Nola and his wife Michelle have one son together who was born on March 26, 2020, which would have been opening day had the 2020 MLB season not been postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Their daughter was born on September 9, 2022.{{Cite web |url=https://twitter.com/sdutkevinacee/status/1568715271967502337 |access-date=2022-09-12 |title=Austin Nola is back off the paternity list (baby girl born yesterday morning). Matt Beaty has been designated for assignment. Bob Melvin said reliever Drew Pomeranz is probably not going to pitch this season. Reiss Knehr optioned to Triple-A to make room for Pierce Johnson. |website=Twitter |language=en}}

Nola is of Italian descent; his great-grandparents emigrated to Baton Rouge from Sicily.{{cite news |last1=Hill |first1=Benjamin |title=Nola feeling right at home in New Orleans |url=https://www.milb.com/news/gcs-140874854 |access-date=March 28, 2021 |work=MiLB.com |publisher=Minor League Baseball |date=August 3, 2015 |archive-date=March 30, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210330223105/https://www.milb.com/news/gcs-140874854 |url-status=live }} His brother Aaron Nola currently pitches for the Philadelphia Phillies.{{cite news |last1=Lauber |first1=Scott |title=Aaron Nola agrees to four-year contract extension with Phillies |url=https://www.inquirer.com/phillies/philadelphia-phillies-aaron-nola-contract-extension-dallas-keuchel-mlb-free-agency-20190213.html |access-date=March 28, 2021 |work=The Philadelphia Inquirer |date=February 13, 2019 |url-access=limited |archive-date=March 30, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210330223124/https://www.inquirer.com/phillies/philadelphia-phillies-aaron-nola-contract-extension-dallas-keuchel-mlb-free-agency-20190213.html |url-status=live }} Their uncle suffers from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and in January 2020, the Nola brothers hosted a "Strike Out ALS" charity event on his behalf.{{cite news |last1=Doucet |first1=Jacques |last2=Auzenne |first2=Josh |title=Baseball brothers host 'Strike Out ALS with Aaron and Austin Nola' |url=https://www.wafb.com/2020/01/31/baseball-brothers-host-strike-out-als-with-aaron-austin-nola/ |access-date=March 28, 2021 |work=WAFB |date=January 30, 2020 |archive-date=February 12, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200212020938/https://www.wafb.com/2020/01/31/baseball-brothers-host-strike-out-als-with-aaron-austin-nola/ |url-status=live }}

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Category:1989 births

Category:Living people

Category:Albuquerque Isotopes players

Category:American expatriate baseball players in the Dominican Republic

Category:American people of Italian descent

Category:Arizona Complex League Royals players

Category:Baseball players from Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Category:Catholic High School (Baton Rouge, Louisiana) alumni

Category:Estrellas Orientales players

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Category:LSU Tigers baseball players

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