The Braves will send Spencer Strider to the mound in Game 1 of the NLDS. He’s 8-0 with a 1.90 ERA in eight starts versus Philadelphia in his career, and he’ll be up against Ranger Suarez, who the Phillies just recently announced as their Game 1 starter.
Ranger Suarez, who started Game 1 of the NLDS last year, will start Saturday's Game 1.
Spencer Strider is expected to start for Atlanta.
— Justin Toscano (@JustinCToscano) October 6, 2023
Ranger Suarez has been a Swiss Army Knife for the Phillies over his career, able to pitch as a starter or in relief, which was on full display during last year’s postseason. He actually started Game 1 of last year’s NLDS as well, but it wasn’t exactly smooth sailing. Suarez only gave up one run over 3.1 innings, but he walked five and wasn’t able to provide the Phillies much length. However, it wouldn’t matter. Philadelphia went on to win 7-6, propelling them to a series victory over the Braves.
Overall, Ranger Suarez pitched in five postseason games during the Phillies run to the World Series, totaling 14.2 innings with an outstanding 1.23 ERA. The moment won’t be too big for him, and he had success against the Braves earlier this season, tossing six innings of one run ball.
With that being said, Suarez wasn’t great this year, posting a 4.18 ERA and has dealt with injuries. Since returning from the IL on September 3rd, he’s made five starts and recorded a 5.20 ERA. However, the Phillies are 4-1 in those games, a testament to how hot their lineup has been of late.
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Photo: Rich Graessle/Icon Sportswire
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