Chris Sale's potential availability adds pressure on Phillies in NL Wild Card game
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 1, 2026, 9:58 PM
Last updated Oct 1, 2026

The Braves and Phillies face a crucial Game 3 in the National League Wild Card Series on October 1. Both teams are on the brink of elimination, with the Braves having an opportunity to avoid a third straight postseason exit at the hands of the Phillies. Braves manager Walt Weiss indicated that Chris Sale, who performed well in Game 1, could be available from the bullpen, which increases pressure on Philadelphia to score early. This situation also emphasizes the strategic battle between Weiss and Phillies manager Don Mattingly as they aim to extend their seasons.
- •Game 3 is the only undecided matchup in the NL Wild Card Series.
- •Sale pitched 6.1 innings with nine strikeouts in Game 1.
- •Weiss did not confirm Sale's availability before the game.
- •The Phillies scored against Braves reliever Dylan Lee in a previous game.
- •Game 3 is crucial for both teams as they face elimination.
- 9:58 PMYahoo Sports — Chris Sale development puts pressure right back on Phillies in wild card series finale
"Walt Weiss delivered a Chris Sale message that places the pressure right back on the Philadelphia Phillies.
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