Braves make a notable decision amid injury crisis concerning their rotation for the series against Mets

The Braves are set to host the Mets for a crucial three-game series starting Tuesday, with Spencer Schwellebach taking the mound against Luis Severino. Atlanta, trailing New York by two games for the final National League Wild Card spot, is aiming to extend their postseason streak to seven years.

Despite numerous injuries, manager Brian Snitker and his staff have managed to keep the team competitive. However, fans are questioning Snitker’s rotation decisions for the season’s final week. With an off day on Monday, Snitker had the option to start Chris Sale on Tuesday, allowing him to pitch both the series opener and potentially the season finale if needed. Instead, he opted to give Sale extra rest, keeping Schwellebach in for the opener.

Sale, expected to win his first Cy Young this year, hasn’t pitched this many innings in five years and looked fatigued in his last start. While Snitker’s move ensures Sale is fully prepared for a critical matchup and potentially a Wild Card series, some argue it’s risky to save him for a game that might never happen. If the Braves miss the playoffs without Sale pitching in a key game, Snitker’s decision could face heavy criticism in the offseason.