The Philadelphia Phillies pulled off a thrilling 7-6 walk-off victory against the New York Mets in Game 2 on Sunday, leveling the NLDS at one game each. The team’s offense ignited in the sixth inning, ensuring at least a Game 4 in this best-of-five series.
Ranger Suárez has been named the expected starter for Game 4, a critical matchup regardless of what happens in Game 3 on Tuesday at Citi Field. The outcome will determine whether the Phillies are on the brink of a third straight NLCS appearance or facing early postseason elimination.
Phillies manager Rob Thomson’s decision to start Suárez in Game 4 raises eyebrows due to his struggles in the second half of the season. Despite Suárez’s strong performances in the previous two postseasons and the start of 2024, he has not been the same since his June 25 outing against the Detroit Tigers, where he allowed eight hits and two earned runs over six innings.
Earlier this season, Suárez had an impressive 10-1 record with a 1.75 ERA, 0.89 WHIP, and a .191 batting average against through June 19. However, his performance has declined since, resulting in a 2-7 record, an ERA of 3.46, a WHIP of 1.20, and a batting average against of .243.
Once a Cy Young Award contender in the first half, Suárez now faces questions about his postseason viability. There’s hope he can return to his dominant form, but he will likely be under close scrutiny in New York on Tuesday.
The intensity of the playoffs could help Suárez regain his best form, as he has performed well in previous postseason appearances. He boasts a 3-1 playoff record with a 1.62 ERA, 0.90 WHIP, and 32 strikeouts across nine games, including two in relief.
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