Chris Sale will want the ball in Game 2. The Braves shouldn’t give it to him

Tim Britton argues that the Atlanta Braves should not start ace Chris Sale in Game 2 of the Division Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers. Despite trailing 1-0 in the series, the writer contends that Atlanta should hold another bullpen game instead of pushing Sale on short rest after his 21-pitch relief appearance on Thursday.

Manager Walt Weiss indicated Sale could pitch if he feels well, but Britton stresses that the 37-year-old left-hander should be preserved for Game 3 in Atlanta. The Braves have been severely depleted by starting pitcher injuries throughout the season, which forced recent reliance on heavy bullpen usage.