Braves Tap Ray Kerr to Open NLDS Game 2 Against Dodgers; Chris Sale Slated for Game 3 Start
The Atlanta Braves are assigning reliever Ray Kerr to open Game 2 of their National League Division Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers, and plan to have Chris Sale start Game 3.
Nashville, TN, October 4, 2026 — The Atlanta Braves have outlined their pitching plans for crucial upcoming games in the National League Division Series (NLDS) against the Los Angeles Dodgers. The team intends to utilize reliever Ray Kerr as the starting pitcher, or ‘opener,’ for Game 2 of the series. Following this strategic move, veteran pitcher Chris Sale is slated to take the mound as the starting pitcher for Game 3.
This decision regarding Kerr’s role indicates a strategic approach to pitching matchups and potentially preserving key bullpen arms for later innings or games. The concept of an ‘opener’ involves using a relief pitcher to start the game and pitch for a limited number of innings, typically before handing over to a more traditional starting pitcher. This strategy has been employed by various MLB teams in recent seasons to gain advantages against opposing lineups.
Kerr, who has primarily worked out of the bullpen for the Braves, will face the challenging task of facing the potent Dodgers lineup early in Game 2. His performance in the initial innings will be critical in setting the tone for the game and impacting the team’s overall bullpen usage.
The assignment of Chris Sale to Game 3 signifies the Braves’ confidence in his ability to anchor the rotation for a pivotal postseason start. Sale, a multi-time All-Star, brings significant experience to the mound. His outing will be key as the series progresses, aiming to secure a crucial win for Atlanta.
The exact sequencing of pitchers after Kerr’s opening and Sale’s start, along with the full bullpen strategy for each game, has not been detailed. The National League Division Series is a best-of-five playoff format, and the Braves will be looking to advance through this challenging matchup against a divisional rival. Further details on the full pitching rotations and potential adjustments will likely emerge as the series approaches and unfolds.
Story summarized from the original created by Aaron Schmidt on www.wsmv.com, see more information here.
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