MLB
NLDS Game 2 Preview
The first Braves playoff game since 2013 was one to forget for the Atlanta faithful. But lucky for them, it’s a quick turn around as NLDS Game 2 is tonight. Featuring Anibal Sanchez (7-6, 2.83 ERA) toeing the rubber against Clayton Kershaw (9-5, 2.73 ERA). While it is technically not a must-win game for the Braves, they are in that territory.
A split heading back to Atlanta would be huge and turn this series back into a possible Braves upset. If they want to get it done, they’ll have to get through Clayton Kershaw. While that would be a daunting task if this were a regular season game, Kershaw has notorious struggles in postseason games. Sitting with a 4.35 ERA, this is something for the Braves to have their focus on to get themselves going.
Get the Offense Going
The bats were silenced in Game 1, and it is critical that it doesn’t happen again in Game 2. And while Kershaw has had his playoff struggles, you still don’t want to get into a pitchers duel with that guy. The Braves need Acuña and Albies to set the bar as the leaders of their offense. Because when those two are moving, the rest of the offense moves with them. Try and get to Kershaw early and don’t let him settle in. Because if Kershaw gets settled in, it becomes what happened in Game 1 with Ryu.
Leaning On Sanchez
For the pitching side, the Braves need Anibal Sanchez to go deep in this game. It was a bullpen game last night for Atlanta, so manager Brian Snitker will be relying on Sanchez for 6 or 7 strong from their listed number 4 guy against the ace of Los Angeles. Limit the powerful Dodgers offense to 2 or 3 runs would be a win for Sanchez and the Braves. It is also a huge part in the start of a comeback in the NLDS for the Braves.
Either way, we the fans are in for a treat. We should see a much more competitive Braves team after getting rid of the Game 1 jitters which will lead to a great night of playoff baseball at it’s finest.
Game 2 starts at 9:37 EST/ 6:37 PST on FS1.
Photo Credit to Keith Allison
