Atlanta Braves Tap Ray Kerr as Opener for Game 3 of NL Wild Card Series
The Atlanta Braves have announced that left-hander Ray Kerr will start as the opener in Game 3 of their National League Wild Card Series against the Philadelphia Phillies.
Chattanooga, TN, October 1, 2026 — The Atlanta Braves have named left-handed pitcher Ray Kerr as the starting “opener” for Game 3 of their National League Wild Card Series. The series is set to take place against the Philadelphia Phillies. This strategic decision marks a pivotal moment in the postseason matchup for the Braves.
An opener is typically a starting pitcher who pitches only the first inning or a short portion of the game, with another pitcher then taking over. This strategy is often employed to gain a favorable matchup against the opposing team’s lineup early in the contest or to leverage a team’s bullpen depth.
The announcement comes as the series progresses, with Game 3 carrying significant weight for both franchises. The Braves, aiming for a deep postseason run, will look to Kerr to set the tone and provide an initial spark against the Phillies. The specific details regarding the pitcher who is expected to follow Kerr in Game 3 were not immediately provided.
The selection of Kerr, a left-hander, suggests a tactical approach by the Braves’ management to counter the Phillies’ offensive strengths in the critical opening frames. Further information on the full pitching plan for Game 3 is anticipated as the team prepares for the high-stakes contest.
Story summarized from the original created by Rick Nyman on www.wdef.com, see more information here.