Weiss Defends Sale Bullpen Move, Bets on Rested Ace

Atlanta Braves manager Walt Weiss remains steadfast in his controversial decision to deploy ace pitcher Chris Sale in relief during a recent high-stakes playoff game. Weiss asserted he has "zero regrets" about using Sale for four outs against the Philadelphia Phillies, a move that reshaped the team's starting rotation for the NLDS. The appearance, consisting of 21 pitches, necessitated a change, moving Sale from a planned Game 2 start against the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Instead, right-hander Ray Kerr was designated to start Game 2, the team's third consecutive bullpen game. Sale is now slated to pitch Game 3 in Atlanta on Tuesday. Weiss explained that the team's priority is ensuring Chris Sale is at "full strength," believing this strategy guarantees "the best version of him" on the mound for Game 3, a stark contrast to potentially pitching him at less than optimal capacity on Sunday.

This strategic gamble comes after the Braves dropped Game 1 to the Dodgers. Sale, who had a Cy Young-caliber season in 2026, finishing 14-9 with a 2.16 ERA, has historically benefited from extended rest. The manager acknowledged that Sale would pitch whenever asked but emphasized the organization's long-term vision, stating, "Sometimes you have to take it out of their hands."