The Philadelphia Phillies are altering their starting rotation because of the postponement of Game 3 of the World Series on Monday, while the visiting Houston Astros are maintaining the status quo. … At least for Game 3.
The Phillies say they will go with Ranger Suarez on Tuesday, with Monday’s probable starter, Noah Syndergaard, now scheduled to start Game 5 on Thursday if he’s not used out of the bullpen.
Game 1 Phillies starter Aaron Nola is now slated for Game 4 on Wednesday.
The Astros, meanwhile, are staying with Lance McCullers Jr. for Game 3, but have decided to start Christian Javier in Game 4 despite ace Justin Verlander getting normal rest since Game 1.
Verlander struggled in Game 1, allowing five runs in five innings as the Astros blew a 5-0 lead. The 39-year-old is without a win and owns a 6.04 ERA in eight World Series starts. Still, he could get the ball for Game 5.
Suarez, who was originally slated for Game 4, pitched 0.2 innings in relief in Game 1 of the World Series last Friday. He is 1-0 with a 1.86 ERA in two playoff starts this year.
McCullers Jr. has yet to pitch since Oct. 23 in the ALCS against the New York Yankees. The 29-year-old has a 2.46 ERA in 11 innings so far this post-season.
Syndergaard started one game in the playoffs, going three innings in the final game of the NLCS as the Phillies eliminated the Atlanta Braves.
Watch Game 3 of the World Series on Tuesday at 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT on Sportsnet.
