Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports
Considering what the result from NLDS game one between the Atlanta Braves and Los Angeles Dodgers, the Braves could be in no better position than they are in after game two. Going into Los Angeles they are tied at one in the series and the new to postseason nerves seem to have evaporated. They should hope against hope that there is none of that from rookie Julio Teheran because they need a win from him in game three worse than it seems like they do.
Teheran is the last of the top line starters for the Braves. After him the certain ability to shut down the opposition fades away. That isn’t to say that Freddy Garcia doesn’t have the ability to shut down another team, it just means that he is far enough to the later part of his career that it is no longer a guarantee. Of course it isn’t a guarantee from Teheran either because he is too close to the start of his career for that.
Think about the difference in game four for the Braves. If Teheran gives them a win in game three there is almost no pressure at all on Garcia and the Braves in game four because a loss just brings them back home. Especially with the looming second start from Clayton Kershaw coming later in the series, the Braves would be in a much worse position if they lose game three and Garcia’s win becomes a must in game four. More is riding on game three for the Braves and Teheran than meets the eye.
David Miller is a Senior Writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @davidmillerrant, “Like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google
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