Key Storylines for Thursday’s LCS Games

The Phillies and the D-backs will face off in Game 3 of the LCS on Thursday, with the Phillies currently leading the series 2-0. Here are three key storylines to watch for in this pivotal matchup.

Storyline No. 1: Is it time to start considering the Phillies’ rotation a Big Three?

Ranger Suárez will take the mound for the Phillies in Game 3. While Suárez may not have the same recognition as star pitchers Zack Wheeler and Aaron Nola, his postseason performance thus far has been outstanding. In two starts, Suárez has an impressive 1.04 ERA, helping the Phillies secure two victories. In fact, his lifetime postseason ERA is just 1.16, with a perfect 3-0 record and a save. Suárez has been even better than the team’s top pitchers, and the D-backs shouldn’t underestimate his abilities.

Storyline No. 2: Can the D-backs bounce back from a tough loss?

In Game 2, the D-backs suffered a crushing 10-0 defeat. While they showed resilience in Game 1 by fighting back from a 5-0 deficit, the loss in the second game was a blow to their confidence. The team’s offense has struggled, with only five hits through 11 innings. The D-backs need to find a way to revive their bats and generate early runs to have a chance in Game 3. Otherwise, the Phillies could easily take a commanding 3-0 series lead.

Storyline No. 3: Can the D-backs change the momentum and bring the series back to Philadelphia?

Citizens Bank Park has been buzzing with energy throughout the postseason. The Phillies’ fanbase has created an electric atmosphere, and it has undoubtedly played a role in the team’s success. In contrast, the D-backs’ home stadium, Chase Field, has only hosted one playoff game so far this postseason. The D-backs must find a way to overcome the intense Philadelphia crowd and win at least two of the next three games to have a chance at forcing a Game 6 in Philadelphia. It won’t be an easy task, but the D-backs must rise to the challenge if they want to keep their World Series hopes alive.

Meanwhile, the Astros and the Rangers will also battle it out in Game 4 of the LCS on Thursday, with the Rangers leading the series 2-1. Here are three key storylines to watch for in this game.

Storyline No. 1: Will the Astros’ road dominance continue?

The Astros have been almost unbeatable on the road, boasting an impressive 3-0 record this postseason away from home. Their road success has been a trademark of their regular season as well, with a record of 51-30. Despite facing the two-time Cy Young Award winner Max Scherzer in Game 3, the Astros fought back and kept their hopes alive. It’s clear that the Astros thrive in hostile environments, and they won’t go down without a fight.

Storyline No. 2: Can the Rangers’ star players step up?

Corey Seager and Marcus Semien have been the catalysts for the Rangers’ success this season, but they have struggled in the ALCS, going a combined 4-for-25 with no extra-base hits. As the team’s top hitters, their performance is crucial for the Rangers’ offensive production. If they don’t start producing at their usual level, the team’s chances of advancing to the World Series could be in jeopardy.

Storyline No. 3: How will the Rangers respond to their first loss?

The Rangers had an incredible undefeated postseason run until Game 3 when they fell to the defending champions, the Astros. This loss may be a wake-up call for the Rangers as they realize they are not invincible. It will be interesting to see how they bounce back from defeat and how they handle the newfound pressure. The Astros showed on Wednesday that they are a formidable opponent and won’t give up their crown easily. The Rangers must regroup and prove that they can still contend in this series.

As the LCS continues, Thursday’s games will undoubtedly be crucial for both the Phillies and the D-backs, as well as the Astros and the Rangers. With these key storylines in mind, baseball fans can look forward to exciting matchups and a potential shift in momentum in both series.