As the Philadelphia Phillies head into the NLDS with their eyes set on a deep postseason run, the decision to start Cristopher Sánchez over Aaron Nola is generating considerable attention.
While Nola has long been a staple of the Phillies’ rotation, the choice to give Sánchez the Game 1 nod is a strategic move that makes perfect sense from both a performance and a tactical standpoint.
Sánchez’s Impressive Second Half
Sánchez has been one of the most consistent pitchers for the Phillies in the second half of the season. Since taking over a more prominent role in the rotation, he has demonstrated the ability to keep opposing batters off balance with his effective mix of fastballs and off-speed pitches.
His ERA in the second half has been significantly lower than Nola’s, and he’s shown an ability to limit hard contact, which is critical in high-pressure playoff situations.
Sánchez’s consistency has been a key factor in the Phillies’ successful stretch run. He finished the regular season with a 3.44 ERA, an impressive mark that places him among the most reliable starters in the rotation.
His ability to control the game and work efficiently through opposing lineups makes him a strong candidate to start in Game 1, where setting the tone for the series is crucial.
Nola’s Struggles and Uncertainty
While Aaron Nola has been a key part of the Phillies’ pitching staff for years, his 2023 season has been one of uncertainty. Nola has struggled with consistency, particularly with his command, leading to a higher-than-expected ERA of 4.46 and a significant number of home runs allowed. These struggles have been magnified when pitching under the spotlight of the postseason, where every mistake can lead to dire consequences.
In the 2022 postseason, Nola had some standout moments, but also some inconsistent outings. With the team needing a reliable performance in Game 1, it makes sense to give the ball to Sánchez, who has been sharper and more stable over the past several months.
A Tactical Advantage
The decision to start Sánchez also allows the Phillies to give Nola an extra day of rest, potentially leading to a fresher, more focused outing in Game 2. This tactical approach could be key in a best-of-five series, where depth in pitching is critical.
By making Sánchez the Game 1 starter, the Phillies also avoid putting too much pressure on Nola right from the start, allowing him to ease into the postseason with a more manageable workload.
In the high-stakes environment of the NLDS, where every game carries immense weight, the Phillies are right to turn to Cristopher Sánchez. His steady performance in the second half, combined with Nola’s recent inconsistencies, makes Sánchez the logical choice for Game 1.
If the Phillies are to make a deep run this postseason, it will be built on pitching, and Sánchez gives them the best chance to start the series on the right foot.