Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images

Heading into Game 2 of the NLDS, much of the talk was of the mismatch in pitching rotations between the Dodgers and the Braves, and whether Atlanta’s bullpen could continue to cover up for a rotation held together with rubber bands and duct tape. Yet, in the end, it was the Dodgers who ended up burning the most relievers, and the denouement was only in doubt because the Braves missed a few opportunities to blow the game, a 3-2 win, wide open.

The most-talked-about pitching decision was probably the one made before the game started: Going with a third consecutive bullpen game rather than starting ace Chris Sale in Game 2. It’s a decision that Walt Weiss clearly doesn’t regret, at least not when speaking in public. He told reporters:

“We had a conversation this morning. Look, at the end of the day, we want full-strength Chris Sale. I know him at 80 percent is really good, but that’s what it came down to. We’ve given him extra rest all year, and it’s served him very well. It allowed him to do what he did the other night, I think all the extra rest he’d gotten. He’d be on normal rest from his last start, but he had the outing in between. Not sure you’re getting the best version of him pitching today. We’re certain he will pitch in Game 3.