Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports

The Diamondbacks Will Go To A Bullpen Game in Game 4

Originally posted on Burn City Sports | By Zac Tipton | Last updated 10/19/23

After the D-backs have used their three starters through the first three games, they will turn to their bullpen in Game 4.

Joe Mantiply will be the opener for game 4. This will give Zac Gallen an extra day off before he pitches Game 5.

The @Dbacks will start LHP Joe Mantiply in Game 4. He will be an opener.

— Steve Gilbert (@SteveGilbertMLB) October 20, 2023

Mantiply has allowed three earned runs in his three innings pitched this playoffs. All three came in his previous outing against the Phillies in Game 2. Mantiply finished the regular season with a 4.62 ERA in 39 innings.

This is the right call for the Diamondbacks. Rushing a pitcher into a start is a recipe for disaster come playoff time. Zac Gallen did not have a good outing in Game 1. Giving him that extra day off boosts what he can do in a Game 5. Joe Mantiply is a middle-leverage guy, so he is the perfect guy to start the game and give you one to two good innings.

This article first appeared on Burn City Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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