Braves Tap Ray Kerr for Opener in Decisive Wild Card Game
The Atlanta Braves will have left-hander Ray Kerr make his first career postseason start as an opener against the Philadelphia Phillies' Aaron Nola in a decisive game of the NL Wild Card Series.
Topeka, KS, October 1, 2026 — The Atlanta Braves have announced that left-handed pitcher Ray Kerr will make his first career postseason start as an opener in a pivotal Game 2 of the National League Wild Card Series. Kerr is set to face off against the Philadelphia Phillies’ right-handed ace, Aaron Nola, in what is a decisive game for the series.
This strategic move by the Braves indicates a significant postseason role for Kerr, who has not previously started a playoff game. The decision to use an opener, a pitcher who starts the game before a primary relief pitcher takes over, is a tactic often employed to gain a specific matchup advantage early in the contest.
Kerr’s selection for this crucial starting assignment highlights the team’s confidence in his abilities to set the tone against a strong Phillies lineup. His performance in the opening innings will be closely watched as the Braves aim to extend their season.
The opponent, Aaron Nola, is a well-established pitcher for the Phillies, known for his consistent performance. The matchup between an opener in Kerr and a traditional ace in Nola sets a unique dynamic for the deciding game of the series.
Further details regarding the full pitching plan for the Braves beyond Kerr’s opener were not immediately available. The outcome of this game will determine which team advances in the postseason.
Story summarized from the original created by CHARLES ODUM, Associated Press on www.ksnt.com, see more information here.
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