Aaron Nola to Start Elimination Game 3 for Phillies, Ranger Suárez Available in Relief

The Philadelphia Phillies are opting for an unconventional strategy in their must-win NLDS Game 3 against the Dodgers, handing the start to Aaron Nola, despite his 6.01 ERA in the regular season. Manager Rob Thomson trusts Nola's comfort in starting and his history of pitching big games, believing he can deliver his best performance. This decision allows the Phillies to present a different look to the Dodgers after starting lefties in the previous games. Career numbers suggest Nola has been more effective against current Dodgers hitters than Ranger Suárez, with Dodgers batters slashing .220/.267/.378 against Nola compared to .326/.375/.535 against Suárez. Nola finished his injury-riddled season strongly with a dominant eight-inning outing in his final start. Suárez, who has been stellar in the postseason with a 1.43 ERA, will be available in relief, a role he is accustomed to from his career. This move also aims to mitigate the struggles of the Phillies' middle relief corps.