The Los Angeles Dodgers have named Tarik Skubal as their starting pitcher for Game 1 of the National League Division Series against the Atlanta Braves. Manager Dave Roberts confirmed the decision, citing the need to give starters extra rest early in the playoffs. Yoshinobu Yamamoto, a Cy Young contender, is expected to start Game 3, while Blake Snell is the likely Game 2 starter. The Braves plan to use a reliever as an opener opposite Skubal, with Chris Sale’s availability for Game 2 still under evaluation after his relief appearance in the wild-card series. Tyler Glasnow is projected to start Game 4.
Skubal, acquired from the Detroit Tigers, posted a 2.61 ERA in 10 starts for the Dodgers. The Braves have a .730 OPS against right-handed pitching this season, influencing the Dodgers’ left-handed-heavy rotation strategy. Manager Walt Weiss emphasized bullpen reliance in the first two games as Atlanta sorts out its pitching plans.
Source: ESPN MLB · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing