Spencer Strider is back and will be getting the start in Game 3 of the NLDS for the Atlanta Braves tonight as they look to gain a 2-1 series edge over the underdog Philadelphia Phillies.
The National League Rookie of the Year candidate had been out for the last week of the regular season with an oblique issue.
Braves insider Mark Bowman revealed what the Braves’ plan with Strider is for Game 3.
Strider will reportedly pitch 2-3 innings and give way to the Braves’ stout bullpen, which will be taxed today.
However, the day off yesterday should help them out some as they try to piece things together in Game 3.
After winning Game 2 at home, the Braves have a little momentum heading into Game 3 of the series.
Strider will likely go 2-3 innings. He has thrown off a mound just twice in the past 26 days. The Braves will tax their pen while playing what could be the first of three straight days. But the pen is fresh coming off yesterday’s offday.
— Mark Bowman (@mlbbowman) October 14, 2022
Braves’ Bullpen Options
While the bullpen might be a little taxed for the Braves today, there are plenty of options for them.
One pitcher of note would be veteran right-hander Jake Odorizzi, who has been put in the bullpen for this series.
If Strider can last two or potentially even three innings, the Braves could simply turn to Odorizzi and have him go multiple innings to give the rest of the bullpen a bit of a break.
If they really wanted to get greedy, they could even send scheduled Game 4 starter Charlie Morton out for a couple of innings.
The key for them is to get as much length out of Strider as possible so the bullpen isn’t overworked.
The Braves are obviously going to be very careful with Strider after his oblique injury and won’t push him too far.
Luckily, they have two solid options in the pen for Game 3 in Odorizzi and Morton.
NEXT: Braves Confirm Their Full NLDS Rotation