Dodgers Shock Phillies with Max Muncy Lineup Twist for Pivotal NLDS Game 3 Showdown
Nola Takes the Mound for Philadelphia
In a surprising turn of events, Philadelphia Phillies manager Rob Thomson has opted to start Aaron Nola instead of Ranger Suarez for Game 3 of the National League Division Series on Wednesday at Dodger Stadium. Nola, a seasoned right-hander, holds a 5-4 postseason record with a 4.02 ERA across 10 playoff appearances. However, his October struggles on the road—marked by a 1-2 record and a 6.53 ERA—raise questions about his effectiveness in high-stakes situations.
Conversely, Suarez has enjoyed a breakout season, finishing with a 12-8 record and a commendable 3.20 ERA over 157.1 innings. His postseason performance has been nothing short of stellar, boasting a 0.52 ERA and 25 strikeouts in 17.1 career innings pitched away from Citizens Bank Park. Adding to the intrigue, Suarez is recovering from a left inner thigh contusion sustained from a 106-mph line drive in his last regular-season start.
With the Dodgers leading the best-of-five series 2-0, they are just one win away from advancing to the NL Championship Series. This pivotal matchup has prompted Dodgers manager Dave Roberts to reconsider his lineup strategy against Nola.
Max Muncy Steps In
When discussing lineup adjustments, Roberts confirmed a significant change: Max Muncy will be in the starting lineup, while Miguel Rojas will take a seat. This decision comes as the Dodgers prepare to face the right-handed Nola, a move that highlights Roberts’ intention to maximize offensive potential.
Roberts remarked, “You know, it doesn’t do a whole lot outside of Max (Muncy) will be in the lineup. (Miguel Rojas) won’t be in there.” He is also weighing a decision between Will Smith and Ben Rortvedt for the starting catcher role, although he emphasized that this choice bears no consequence on the Phillies’ starting pitcher.
Smith has been gradually returning from a hairline fracture in his right hand, an injury sustained during a game in Pittsburgh a month ago.
Muncy’s Impact in the Series
Muncy has played a pivotal role in this postseason, coming off the bench in Game 1 against left-hander Cristopher Sanchez and making an impact in Game 2 against lefty Jesus Luzardo. In Game 2, he drew a walk during a crucial fourth-inning rally and later contributed a double against the Phillies’ closer Jhoan Duran. His presence has been electrifying, evidenced by his involvement in a highlight-worthy defensive play.
Reflecting on that moment, Muncy expressed, “Not even just talking about the play, it was more about how it came together.” He noted that the wheel play executed by the Dodgers, which hadn’t been practiced in several years, stood out as one of the most memorable moments of his career.
As the Dodgers look to close out the series, Muncy’s inclusion in the lineup signals a strategic shift aimed at capitalizing on Nola’s vulnerabilities, with the hopes of securing a place in the next round of the playoffs.
