The second game of the NLCS will be played on Tuesday, as Atlanta looks to go up 2-0. This is the first time since 2001 that the Braves have made it this far, so they’ll be hoping to continue their impressive play and get past the Dodgers. However, this is no small task.
They were able to dominate the Marlins in the NLDS, the same place where the Cardinals bashed them last year. But this time, they made the playoffs (again) and got serious. The Atlanta sports teams always seem to struggle in the big playoff games, but 2020 might finally signal a changing of the guard.
On the other hand, Los Angeles is feeling all of the pressure, having fallen short several years in a row. They, like Atlanta, bowed out in the NLDS last year. The Washington Nationals won one of the most unlikely World Series titles ever, and so the Dodgers were one of several teams to fall victim to them.
There are no excuses this time around. They’ll need to win Game 2 to avoid the early 0-2 hole against a talented team.
ODDS:
The moneyline for the Braves is set at +145, while it’s -167 for the Dodgers. The over/under is set at 7.5.
ATL Pushes for 2-0 Lead
In a game that was tied into the ninth inning, extras were in the question for Game 1. But Atlanta was fantastic, plating four runs in the ninth to come away with the win.
There are so many fantastic hitters in this Braves lineup, so it isn’t much of a surprise to see them hitting in big situations. Whether we’re talking Ozzie Albies, Freddie Freeman, Ronald Acuna Jr., or any of the others, they have plenty of options to come through. What a strong lineup the Braves have to make the Dodgers face.
Ian Anderson is set to make his third start of the postseason. He has allowed five hits and no runs in 11 2/3 innings of work. He’s got 17 strikeouts and just three walks.
Dodgers Searching for a Victory
After coming away with the sweep last round, the Dodgers find themselves trailing in a series for the first time. They’ve got two former MVP’s in the lineup that will need to start hitting the cover off the ball for things to truly turn around.
And aside from those two, you can look up and down the lineup to find productive players. From Will Smith to Justin Turner to Corey Seager, the list goes on. With all of the money on the payroll, they are able to field great teams every year.
Clayton Kershaw is set to make his third playoff start. He fired eight scoreless with 13 strikeouts against Milwaukee. And against the Padres, he allowed three runs in six innings against San Diego, striking out six.
Braves Go Up 2-0
Playoff Kershaw is not too great. He’ll struggle, and it will help lead the Braves to another win.
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