Cristopher Sánchez, di young and talented pitcher for di Philadelphia Phillies, dey set to start Game 2 of di National League Division Series against di New York Mets on Sunday afternoon at Citizens Bank Park. Dis decision by Phillies manager Rob Thomson come after Sánchez impressive performance at home dis season, where he went 7-3 with a 2.21 ERA in 17 starts.
Sánchez’s home record be one of di best in Phillies history over di past 40 seasons, with only Cliff Lee, Roy Halladay, and Curt Schilling achieving similar or better home ERAs in a single season. However, his road performances have been a different story, with a 4-6 record and a 5.02 ERA in 14 outings away from home.
Despite di challenges on di road, Sánchez’s growth and evolution as a pitcher have been remarkable. He started di year pitching at 92-93 mph but now regularly hits 95-96 mph while maintaining his command. “It’s really amazing di steps that he’s taken, di growth that he’s had — not only physically, but mentally and emotionally,” Thomson said.
In addition to his baseball career, Sánchez recently welcomed a new baby boy with his wife, just days before his playoff start. This personal milestone adds to his motivation as he prepares to take on di Mets in a crucial game.
Aaron Nola, another key pitcher for di Phillies, will start Game 3 on Tuesday at Citi Field. Nola has a strong record at Citi Field, with a 2.49 ERA in 12 starts since 2018, which gives di Phillies hope for a strong performance in New York.
