Even with theexcitement around the Atlanta Bravesclinching the National League East and being locked into their current playoff spot there is remaining trepidation around how the postseason rotation is going to line up. There is no doubt that it will be Chris Sale in Game 1, getting the ball and attempting to set the tone for what is going to be an interesting wildcard matchup. With that said, fans have gone back and forth over the last month as to who should be getting the ball in a potential Game 2 scenario.
Barring any major performance changes in the final six games of the season, it has become impossible to ignore it should be Tyler Mahle getting the ball in the second game of the series. As crazy as this would've sounded two months ago, it is reality, as the right-hander has been shockingly dominant in his Atlanta tenure.
Mahle has pitched 49.1 innings to the tune of a 1.28 ERA and only seven earned runs allowed in what has been a dominating performance. While it might not be maintained beyond this season, there is no question that Mahle has caught fire at the perfect time for the Braves and has earned the right to start a second postseason game.
For Atlanta, the matchup doesn't matter if you have Sale and Mahle going back-to-back days at home you're feeling great about your chances to take care of business in the short playoff series. This answers any questions as to who should be on the mound and should be reflected in how the Braves prepare for the first round in the final two series of the year.
Braves Should Start Tyler Mahle in Second Postseason Game as Right-Hander Continues to Ride Heater
No matter the opposing lineup you're facing, fans have to feel they have a great chance to come away with a win in both the first two games with this starting duo. Sale is going to give you a chance it is simply a question of whether or not the lineup can take advantage of the opposing pitcher.
For Mahle, there is the hurdle to be cleared of whether or not he can continue this hot streak in the postseason, but the right hander has been unhittable at home for much of his Atlanta tenure. There isn't any reason to believe the results are going to changed in what is an earned chance.
Mahle taking the ball in the second game of a postseason series is unquestionably unexpected compared to where the Braves started the season. It points to what an odd and entertaining season it has been for a roster with legitimate World Series hopes.
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