Originally Posted by
Enscheff
What's extra interesting about the Braves using an opener idea is there's no set number of innings the opener has to go since they are all former SPs.
For example, Newk opening for Gaus. In a traditional opener scenario, the Dodgers would still throw out their usual lineup vs RHP since Gausman would be the "bulk guy". However, if they did that, the Braves could simply let Newk go 3-4 innings and turn the LHH-heavy lineup over 1-2 times with the platoon advantage, most likely handing the game over to Gausman just in time to face Turner.
Or, the Dodgers throw out their usual lineup vs a LHP, and the Braves switch to Gausman early. This would force the Dodgers to either swap out their position players for platoon advantages early, or allow Gausman to face the LHP lineup 2-3 times.
Or, maybe Gaus opens for Newk to ensure he faces Turner in the 1st inning no matter which lineup the Dodgers throw out there. That strategy means Gaus could open several games in the series, and Turner always has to hit vs a RHP in the 1st, and the length of Gausman's outing is determined by which lineup the Dodgers decided to use.
The Braves are uniquely positioned to throw some sort of creative pitching deployment strategy at a team like the Dodgers, and I hope we see it. Of course, that's not something that can be sprung on the players suddenly in the playoffs, so the Braves would need to practice these strategies in September when the rosters expand.