Braves (Fried, 1-1) vs Astros (Urquidy)

It is Fried vs Urquidy after an unexpectedly bullpen-centric World Series game one. Max Fried was dominant in the regular season, especially coming down the stretch. He had 2 very good 6 inning starts in the postseason, but the third was not a charm as the Dodgers finally got to him. He allowed 5 runs over 4.2 innings. Fried, if he is on, can give the Braves what they need, a long successful outing. He is a very good lefty and the Astros are not quite the same team vs. left-handed pitchers.

Urquidy has started 1 game in the post season, lasting just 1.2 innings and giving up 5 ER. He had a strong regular season, marred by a long turn on the IL, and has been uneven since his return. Urquidy is capable of throwing a strong outing today but it is less likely than Fried’s chances.

Both bullpens pitched very well in game one, but having to cover so many innings is far less than ideal. Should these starters falter, both teams will struggle to cover the extra innings today. Atlanta’s batters are on a tear, and appear at the moment quite capable of matching the Astro’s fire power. The Astros are formidable at home but the Braves are a very good road team.

It is a hard call on the total today; just too many variables are out there. I like Fried’s chances of delivering far more than Urquidy’s. I know the Astros will be desperate for a home win, but Atlanta’s chances are also dependent on Fried’s success now that Charlie Morton is out for the duration. Take the Braves, a small underdog, to win today.