The Atlanta Braves won’t be starting Chris Sale in the second game of their Monday doubleheader against the Mets because of back spasms. Instead, Grant Holmes will take the mound for what is expected to be a bullpen-heavy game. Holmes only found out he was starting late Monday afternoon.
The Braves lost the first game of the doubleheader, making the second game crucial. If they lose again, the Arizona Diamondbacks will advance to the playoffs, ending Atlanta’s season. The Mets have already clinched a wild-card berth with their earlier win.
#Braves Alex Anthopoulos said they just didn’t feel like pushing Chris Sale through the injury was responsible. Sale felt back spasms in 2nd inning vs. Cincinnati.
— Grant McAuley (@grantmcauley) September 30, 2024
Chris Sale had an amazing season with a league-leading 2.38 ERA and 225 strikeouts across 29 starts and 177 2/3 innings. He might even win his first Cy Young Award! But now his injury makes it uncertain if he’ll start Game 1 in the Wild Card Series, especially after flying to San Diego .
Fans might think this news is really disappointing and worry about their playoff chances.
Holmes, who is filling in for Sale, has made six starts and appeared in relief 19 times this year. He pitched just yesterday in their loss to Kansas City Royals.
What do you think about these changes?
