Phillies vs. Padres: Juan Soto, the fourth starters and the schedule among five key NLCS X-factors
The 2022 National League Championship Series features a clash of underdogs. San Diego Padres and Philadelphia Phillies finished third and third respectively in their respective divisions. This is the second NLCS since 2015 that doesn't involve the Dodgers or Atlanta Braves. Manny Machado, Juan Soto, Bryce Harper and the schedule are key factors.
Zack Wheeler and Aaron Nola are the Phillies' ace pitchers. They have a combined ERA of 3.07 and a 2.77 FIP this season. If the series goes at least six games, they will be able to make four starts on full rest. The Phillies avoided an NLDS Game 5 against the Braves. They would have had to play a Game 7.
Juan Soto was a deadline addition for the Padres. He has struggled in the playoffs, but he's a better player against the Dodgers. Sato is a left-handed hitter, so he won't be facing a lot of lefties. He's also a good player in terms of playing against right-handers.
The schedule for the NLCS between the Phillies and Padres is much compressed. The teams will have an off day between Games 2 and 3 and not between Game 5 and 6. If the series goes to San Diego, the teams have to travel after Game 6 the next day. This eliminates the possibility of any pitcher making three starts in the best-of-seven series. Padres' bullpen has worked 24 2/3 postseason innings across 23 appearances. Phillies' relief pitchers have worked 21 2-3 innings in 22 appearances in this series so far.
Phillies and Padres are playing in the NLCS. Juan Soto is the fourth starter for the Phillies.
Game 3 of the NLCS is important because it will determine the outcome of a best-of-seven series. San Diego has the starting advantage, but the Phillies have the better pitching. The team that leads 2-1 in a series goes on to win the series more than 70 percent of times.
Phillies and Padres are playing in the NLCS. There's no obvious fourth starter for either team. Bob Melvin will try Sean Manaea against the Phillies.
Phillies vs. Padres is a NLCS game. Juan Soto, Rob Thomson and the schedule are key factors.
