3 Things to get excited about for Braves-Cardinals Game 5

The Braves and Cardinals both lack reliable bullpen arms

Coming into this series, it was clear that both teams have had issues with reliable arms coming out of their bullpen. Both bullpens ended the season with ERA’s in the bottom portion of the league, and even though the Braves went out and got Tigers’ closer Shane Greene at the deadline, once one of their starters leaves this game it’s anyone’s game.

The same can be said for the Cardinals, who moved former starter Carlos Martinez into the closer role for this season, and while he has incredible stuff on the mound he weirdly goes through moments where he can’t miss a bat. We saw Martinez let the Braves come back in Game 1 and in Game 3, and in an elimination game, you can expect both managers to have quick hooks for their pitchers.

While that is terrifying for both teams and their fanbases, but for someone like myself who doesn’t have a dog in the fight, it means that if Game 5 is another low-scoring affair, that both of these teams have a real chance to come back late. Shakey bullpens lead to high-intensity moments and in a winner takes all elimination games, that only amps up the drama in what should be a fun finale to this NLDS.