Full Breakdown
Ray Kerr Starts NLDS Game 2 for Braves vs. Dodgers
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event: Unexpected Opening Assignment
The Atlanta Braves announced that left-handed reliever Ray Kerr will start Game 2 of the National League Division Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers. Manager Walt Weiss downplayed the timing, noting that the specific timing was not a major concern, and confirmed that ace Chris Sale is slated to start the subsequent game. Kerr’s assignment follows his standout relief work in the Wild Card Series, where he helped the Braves clinch the series against the Philadelphia Phillies.
Background & Context
Kerr’s path to the postseason is atypical. After entering the foster-care system in Reno, Nevada, he worked at a 7-Eleven and a movie theater before returning to baseball at Lassen College. A summer stint in the Alaska Baseball League showcased a fastball that touched 93 mph, leading the Seattle Mariners to sign him as an undrafted free agent in 2017. He spent five years in the minors, was traded to the San Diego Padres, and made his major-league debut in 2022. A Tommy John surgery in 2024 sidelined him for the 2025 season, but he returned in 2026, earning a spot on Atlanta’s active roster in August.
Data & Statistics
- 2026 regular season (post-call-up): 1.47 ERA over 18 1/3 innings in nine appearances.
- Left-handed hitters: .174 batting average against Kerr; only one extra-base hit (a double) allowed.
- Wild Card Game 3 (vs. Phillies): 3 1/3 scoreless innings, 47 pitches, one hit, one walk.
- NLDS Game 2 (vs. Dodgers): Struck out four-time MVP Shohei Ohtani on a 95-mph four-seam fastball, part of a season-high-tying four strikeouts for Kerr.
Official Statements & Responses
Kerr himself said he felt little pressure heading into the game, describing a routine morning with his wife and baby, a brief swim, and a short mental preparation before taking the mound.
On-the-Ground Report
The Braves edged the Dodgers 3-2, evening the series at one game apiece. Michael Harris II delivered a go-ahead triple after a wild pitch, while Max Muncy hit a late home run for Los Angeles. Dodgers starter Blake Snell struggled, allowing three hits and one run in 3 2/3 innings. Shohei Ohtani, the four-time MVP, went 1-for-4 with two strikeouts and was not a factor in the outcome. The Braves’ bullpen, anchored by Kerr’s opening stint, retired the next 14 Dodgers hitters after Ohtani’s at-bat.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Some pre-game commentary speculated that ace Chris Sale might start Game 2, but the Braves’ official roster move confirmed Kerr’s role. No further discrepancies were noted in the available sources.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I didn’t really have much pressure on me,” — August. Kerr – “I didn’t really have much pressure on me.” — Ray Kerr, pitcher
- “It’s going to be crazy there,” — August. Kerr – “It’s going to be crazy there.” — Ray Kerr, pitcher
What’s Next
The Braves plan to give Chris Sale the start in Game 3 of the NLDS, aiming to capitalize on his ace status after Kerr’s opening effort.