The stage is set, Dallas Keuchel vs. Dakota Hudson at 3:07.
There was a little debate on our Twitter today on who should get the start, Julio Teheran or Dallas Keuchel? Snitker has made his choice, and the World Series champ will get the ball after a pretty darn good outing in Game 1. He went 4.2 innings, throwing 74 pitches and only gave up the one run. He did have a little trouble with walks but got himself out of some tough situations, which is what this team brought him in for.
Julio Teheran actually has a fantastic track record against St. Louis, and Keuchel sports a 5.01 ERA away from Suntrust Park. However, this is the postseason. You put your best foot forward in all situations. Teheran is available if he’s needed to pitch, and this offense has shown they can create some runs with their backs against the wall. This sets up Mike Soroka or Mike Foltynewicz to Start Game 1 of the NLCS on Friday (pending a Braves win tonight). If the Braves don’t win, expect to see Mike Foltynewicz on the mound in a Game 5 at home – with all hands on deck as well.
Keuchel received some run support early in Game 1, which is going to be vital to Atlanta’s success in Game 4. Keuchel enjoys living on the dangerous side, usually forcing a double play or a pivotal strikeout to get out of a jam. These tides can turn very quickly on the road, so Atlanta needs to support him early. A little cushion can go a long way with Keuchel on the bump.