By: Vincent Aldridge
Feature Image from insidehook.com
Well the Rays have tied it up, setting up for what I would argue could be the best game in the whole series.
Game 3 will feature Walker Buehler, 1-0, 1.89 ERA and Charlie Morton, 3-0, 0.57 ERA. The good thing is, the Dodgers have faced Charlie Morton before, so they have somewhat of an idea of what he’ll do. The bad news, He’s been virtually unhittable this postseason.
After the game, many fans may’ve asked a question such as, “Why all the pitching changes? Why couldn’t we have just brought Buehler out now, as he could’ve absolutely annihlated that Rays offense.”
And that is a really good point. But that also implies that Walker Buehler is pressured to get this win. If Dave Roberts decided to go with sending him out for Game 2, the Dodgers would’ve had to get the win. Otherwise that bullpen game from Game 2 would’ve been forced to Game 3, and Morton probably would’ve gotten the job done if that were to happen, forcing the Series to either 2 Games to 1 Rays, or 2-1 Dodgers. It’s basically a strategical decision, so Dave actually made the right move when he made Game 2 the bullpen night.
Expect a lot of defense tonight, as both aces definitely know what they are doing, and it won’t be easy to score on either side.
In total, the Dodgers used 7 pitchers in that game, with Dustin May being hit the hardest, allowing three earned runs and 4 hits in just 1.1 innings pitched.
This now sets up for Game 3, with the series tied, 1-1. Despite the series being tied, the Dodgers have the slight advantage, thanks to their next 3 games going to Walker Buehler, Julio Urías, and Clayton Kershaw. Joc Pederson will be in Left Field for LA.