Year 3 of the 12-team postseason format has shown a trend: teams winning Game 1 often sweep the Wild Card Series. Last year, only the Mets forced a Game 3 against the Padres, but San Diego still won.
On Wednesday, four teams—the Astros, Braves, Brewers, and Orioles—aim to extend their seasons after losing Game 1 on Tuesday. The Astros, Braves, and Orioles combined for just one run on Tuesday. The Padres, Royals, and Tigers saw strong performances from their aces in Game 1.
Losing Game 1 puts your season at risk in this short series. Here’s what each team needs to do in Game 2 to force a decisive Game 3.
Atlanta Braves: Fried must deliver a gem
The Braves had to start rookie AJ Smith-Shawver in Game 1 due to scheduling issues and Chris Sale’s back problem. It didn’t go well; he gave up three runs early. Relievers Aaron Bummer, Jesse Chavez, and Luke Jackson had to cover nearly seven innings effectively.
In Game 2, Max Fried takes the mound. He’s been Atlanta’s rock and pitched brilliantly in big games before . With Sale out, Fried is crucial for Atlanta’s survival. Fans hope he can shut down the opposing team like Michael King did for the Padres on Monday.
Baltimore Orioles: Get on the board early
The Orioles have lost nine straight postseason games since 2014 . This streak must end to force a Game 3. Baltimore’s current roster is winless in October over two years with minimal scoring.
An early run against Seth Lugo could change everything for Baltimore fans who are feeling hopeless right now. Even a solo homer by Gunnar Henderson or Anthony Santander would boost morale significantly.
Houston Astros: Get more from the bottom of the order
Good news: Houston won’t face Tarik Skubal again in Game 2; bad news: Detroit will mix up their pitchers unpredictably with Tyler Holton likely starting.
Astros hitters might face multiple pitchers throughout the game making it tough but not impossible . Top hitters like Jose Altuve and Kyle Tucker performed well against Skubal but need support from lower-order batters who struggled with seven strikeouts collectively .
Milwaukee Brewers: Limit mistakes
Monday’s game between Brewers vs Mets was chaotic with multiple lead changes early on before Mets took control via a five-run rally fueled by Milwaukee errors:
– Jackson Chourio misplayed a line drive into double.
– Joel Payamps missed stepping on first base which would’ve ended inning.
– Aaron Ashby threw poor pitches leading two-run singles by Mark Vientos & J.D Martinez
Fans think these mistakes cost them dearly! Pulling Freddy Peralta after four innings also seemed questionable given how events unfolded later though understandable considering bullpen strength all year long!
Milwaukee needs tighter gameplay Wednesday else they risk ending their season prematurely due continued errors giving Mets extra opportunities they capitalize upon efficiently!
What do you think? Can these teams turn things around?
