In an unexpected turn of events, the Atlanta Braves were forced to scratch left-hander Chris Sale from his scheduled start in the second game of Monday's doubleheader against the New York Mets due to back spasms. Despite this setback, the Braves clinched a playoff berth with a 3-0 victory in the second game, bolstering their position as they head into the Wild Card Series against the San Diego Padres.
Sale's Impact and Concerns
Chris Sale, a pivotal figure in the Braves' rotation, has been instrumental throughout the season. At 35 years old, he has accumulated an impressive array of statistics, including a 2.38 ERA (174 ERA+), a 5.77 strikeout-to-walk ratio over 29 starts, and a valuation of 6.2 Wins Above Replacement according to Baseball Reference. Sale's performance has been so dominant that he is considered a frontrunner for this year's National League Cy Young Award. He also secured the league's first pitching triple crown since 2011.
Manager Brian Snitker expressed concerns about Sale's availability moving forward, stating after the game, "I do not expect Sale to be an option to pitch during Atlanta's Wild Card Series against the San Diego Padres."
Atlanta's Pitching Depth
Sale's back spasms and the uncertainty surrounding his recovery have raised questions about the Braves' pitching depth as they prepare for the postseason. Spencer Schwellenbach, Grant Holmes, and Reynaldo López were all called upon to pitch during Monday's doubleheader games, showcasing the team's ability to adapt under pressure.
Additionally, the Braves have relied on the likes of Max Fried, who started on Friday, and Charlie Morton, who threw 75 pitches on Sunday. However, the absence of Sale in the Wild Card Series will undoubtedly test the resilience and depth of Atlanta's pitching staff.
Wild Card Series Outlook
The Braves will face the San Diego Padres in a series where every game is crucial. All games will be played at Petco Park, a venue known for its pitcher-friendly dimensions, which can play to the advantage of strong pitching performances.
The first game of the series is set for 8:38 p.m. ET on Tuesday night. With Sale sidelined, the Braves' pitching strategy will be under scrutiny. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Atlanta navigates this challenge and which pitchers step up to fill the void left by Sale's unavailability.
As the Braves advance into the heated atmosphere of the playoffs, the questions surrounding their pitching rotation remain a focal point. The team's success will hinge on the performances of its remaining pitchers and their ability to maintain the high standards set by their ace throughout the season.