Overview

• With Zack Wheeler sidelined, team reporting indicates the Phillies are leaning toward a three-lefty NLDS plan featuring Sánchez, Suárez and Luzardo.
• Sánchez is projected to open the series, with Games 2 and 3 to be set once Thomson finalizes the order.
• Luzardo publicly asked for a postseason start, strengthening his case despite a late-season downturn following a strong first half.
• The Game 2 selection is pivotal because that pitcher would also line up for a potential Game 5 at home.
• Aaron Nola’s inconsistency and Suárez’s prior postseason work out of the bullpen are key variables in the Phillies’ role decisions.