Braves-Cardinals Preview for NLDS Game 2 Showdown

The St. Louis Cardinals came away victorious in Game 1 of the NLDS against the Atlanta Braves, even though the NL East champs appeared to have the contest in hand for most of the game.

The winner of Game 1 in the division series advances 72% of the time, so Friday's game is essentially a must-win for Atlanta, a team that needs to claw back and win three out of the next four games to advance.

Pitching Matchup: RHP Jack Flaherty vs. RHP Mike Foltynewicz

To make matters worse for the Bravos, they have to face right-hander Jack Flaherty in Game 2, who's been arguably the best pitcher in baseball throughout the second half. Over his last 15 starts, Flaherty is 7-2 with an incredible 0.91 ERA.

This type of run from Flaherty harkens back to what Jake Arrieta did in 2015 en route to the NL Cy Young Award.

Of course, the Braves aren't sending out a lightweight, either. Mike Foltynewicz will get the ball for Atlanta, and over his last seven starts he's been nearly unhittable, posting a 4-1 record with a 1.73 ERA.

Cardinals Lineup

The Cardinals aren't making a lot of changes to their everyday lineup. The same players who started in Game 1 are out there for Game 2. The only difference in the batting order is that second baseman Kolten Wong will bat sixth, and shortstop Paul DeJong will move down to the seventh spot.

Braves Lineup

Atlanta's offense stayed quiet for most of the game Thursday until the late innings, but manager Brian Snitker is sticking with his guys and rolling out the same batting order in what could end up being a pitcher's duel.