Dylan Dodd to start NLDS Game 1 against Dodgers
The Atlanta Braves utilized Dylan Dodd as an opener for Game 1 of the NLDS against the Los Angeles Dodgers. Despite a strong performance from Dodd, the Braves ultimately lost the series opener 5-3.
Why it matters
This highlights the evolving strategic use of 'openers' and bullpen management in Major League Baseball postseason play.
LOS ANGELES -- Having seen what Ray Kerr did to the Phillies on Thursday night and with left-handed hitters Shohei Ohtani and Freddie Freeman sitting near the top of the Dodgers’ lineup, the Braves opted to use yet another opener in Game 1 of their National League Division Series against Los Angeles on Saturday afternoon.
Dylan Dodd was named the starter for Game 1 and gave the Braves everything they could have hoped for, tossing three scoreless innings vs. the Dodgers' vaunted stars. He allowed two hits and no walks, striking out four, on 47 pitches (30 strikes) in Atlanta's 5-3 series-opening loss .
Before Saturday, the last time Dodd started was in the 2023 season, when he made seven starts.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in