Braves' Playoff Hopes in Jeopardy with Chris Sale's Back Spasms
The Atlanta Braves faced a significant setback on Monday when star left-hander Chris Sale was unexpectedly scratched from his scheduled start in the second game of the doubleheader against the New York Mets. Sale, who has been a crucial component of the Braves' rotation, was sidelined due to back spasms, raising concerns about the team's pitching depth as they head into the postseason.
The Braves managed to clinch a playoff berth with a 3-0 victory in Monday's game, but Sale's unavailability casts a shadow over the team's upcoming Wild Card Series against the San Diego Padres. The 35-year-old pitcher has been instrumental in the Braves' success this season, boasting a 2.38 ERA and securing the league's first pitching triple crown since 2011. His performance has been so dominant that he is widely expected to win this year's National League Cy Young Award.
Manager Brian Snitker addressed the media after the game, shedding light on Sale's condition and his prospects for the postseason. "Manager Brian Snitker told reporters after the game that he does not expect Sale to be an option to pitch during Atlanta's Wild Card Series against the San Diego Padres," Snitker said. This admission is troubling for Braves fans, as Sale's absence leaves a considerable gap in the rotation.
Sale's dominance on the mound this season cannot be understated. With a 5.77 strikeout-to-walk ratio over 29 starts and a 6.2 Wins Above Replacement (WAR) according to Baseball Reference, his contributions have been pivotal. The Braves will now have to rely on their other pitchers to step up in his absence.
In the doubleheader against the Mets, Spencer Schwellenbach, Grant Holmes, and Reynaldo López took the mound, showcasing the depth of Atlanta's bullpen. Additionally, Max Fried started on Friday, and Charlie Morton threw 75 pitches on Sunday, giving the Braves some options as they strategize for the upcoming series.
The first game of the Wild Card Series is slated for 8:38 p.m. ET on Tuesday night, with all games to be played at Petco Park in San Diego. Petco Park's pitcher-friendly dimensions could play to Atlanta's advantage, but the absence of their ace could still be keenly felt.
It's clear that the Braves will face a challenging road ahead. While the team has managed to secure a playoff spot, the uncertainty surrounding Sale's condition and the need for other pitchers to fill the void will be the narrative to watch in the days leading up to the series against the Padres. With Brian Snitker not expecting Sale to be ready, the spotlight will turn to other key players to carry the team forward in what promises to be a highly competitive postseason.