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Jesús Luzardo is at the center of the Phillies’ biggest pitching gamble as Philadelphia prepares to face the Atlanta Braves in Game 1 of a best-of-three wild-card series Tuesday.
Manager Don Mattingly announced Monday that Luzardo would start the opener, although he quickly clarified that the left-hander would likely “open” the game rather than follow a traditional starter’s schedule. The decision reflects both the Phillies’ limited options and the uncertainty surrounding Luzardo’s recent workload.
Jesús Luzardo Faces a Critical Test Against Atlanta
Luzardo produced one of the strongest seasons of his career, posting a 2.86 ERA and striking out 221 batters in 179⅔ innings. Those numbers would normally make him a straightforward choice to start a playoff opener.
However, an inflamed left shoulder interrupted his preparation. Luzardo has thrown only four pitches in a game over the last three weeks, leaving the Phillies unsure whether he can provide six innings, work through Atlanta’s lineup once, or simply record a handful of important outs.
“I don’t think we really know what to expect,” Mattingly said, underscoring the unusual nature of the plan.
Catcher J.T. Realmuto offered a slightly more optimistic view. He said the Phillies did not believe 10 days off would necessarily disrupt Luzardo’s rhythm, but the club’s cautious approach suggests it will monitor him closely from the opening pitch.
A Creative Pitching Plan Built Under Pressure
The Phillies originally intended to use Zack Wheeler in Game 1 against Braves ace Chris Sale. That plan changed when Wheeler was needed Sunday for a must-win regular-season finale against the Tampa Bay Rays.
Cristopher Sánchez remains lined up for Game 2 on regular rest. Aaron Nola could have been another option, but the Phillies used him on two days’ rest Saturday night in an urgent attempt to secure their postseason place.
That leaves Philadelphia relying on flexibility, aggressive bullpen decisions, and perhaps a postseason surge from Luzardo. The ideal scenario would see Luzardo handle the early innings before Andrew Painter and rookie reliever Alex McFarlane help bridge the game to closer Jhoan Duran.
- Jesús Luzardo is expected to open Game 1.
- Cristopher Sánchez is lined up for Game 2.
- Andrew Painter is available from the bullpen.
- Alex McFarlane could face Atlanta in a high-pressure role.
- Jhoan Duran remains the preferred late-inning option.
Phillies Look to Repeat a Successful Atlanta Formula
The situation has similarities to the Phillies’ 2023 postseason visit to Atlanta. At that time, Philadelphia used Ranger Suárez for roughly one and a half turns through the Braves’ lineup before unleashing a series of hard-throwing relievers.
That strategy worked spectacularly, producing a 3-0 series-opening victory. The Phillies hope a similarly inventive script can neutralize an Atlanta lineup led by Ronald Acuña Jr., particularly if Luzardo’s pitch count becomes a concern.
Game 1 carries extra weight in a short series. Since the wild-card miniseries format began in 2022, 11 of 16 series have ended in sweeps. Only one team has recovered from losing the opener, making Tuesday’s matchup especially important for both clubs.
Right-Handed Hitters Could Become Game-Changers
Mattingly is expected to feature several right-handed bats against Sale, including outfielders Derek Hill and Bryan De La Cruz. Sale allowed only six runs in 26 innings across four starts against Philadelphia this season, so the matchup will be difficult regardless of platoon advantages.
Hill hit .261 with seven home runs and a .783 OPS after joining the Phillies in an early-June trade with the Chicago White Sox. De La Cruz batted .280 with two homers and a .762 OPS after being promoted from Triple-A in August.
Both players could remain valuable after Sale exits. Atlanta’s bullpen may include several left-handed relievers, creating opportunities for Philadelphia’s right-handed bats to influence Games 1, 2, and 3.
Can Trea Turner Reset in the Postseason?
The Phillies also need Trea Turner to leave his difficult regular season behind. After winning a batting title in 2025 and finishing fifth in the National League MVP voting, Turner struggled to a .242 average, .297 on-base percentage, and .675 OPS this year.
Still, he finished the regular season with encouraging momentum. Turner collected two hits in each of his final two games and went 10-for-33 with four walks over his last 11 contests. A strong playoff performance could quickly change the conversation around his season.
Philadelphia may also welcome the road setting. The Phillies finished 45-36 away from home, better than their 43-38 record at Citizens Bank Park. They have also lost five of their last six postseason home games dating back to the 2023 National League Championship Series.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Jesús Luzardo starting Game 1?
The Phillies planned to use Zack Wheeler, but he pitched in the regular-season finale. Luzardo became the best available option despite his limited recent workload.
What does it mean that Luzardo will “open” the game?
It suggests the Phillies may use Luzardo for a limited number of innings or monitor his pitch count closely before turning to their bullpen.
Who is expected to pitch Game 2?
Cristopher Sánchez is lined up to start Game 2 on regular rest.
Why is Game 1 so important?
In a best-of-three wild-card series, the winner of Game 1 gains a major advantage. Most series under the current format have ended in sweeps.
