Cardinals: Biggest X-Factors for Game 2 against the Phillies

Steven Matz and Zack Thompson

The Cardinals opted to carry four other lefties on their roster outside of Quintana, including Pack Naughton and Jordan Montgomery, the latter of which may start a potential Game 3. Steven Matz and Zack Thompson appear to be their lefty specialists for this series, and will likely be put in big spots during Game 2.

The two most dangerous Phillies hitters both bat from the left side – Kyle Schwarber and Bryce Harper. Both have the ability to change the game with one swing of the bat in the late innings or when runners are on base. The Phillies decided to put their two best right handed hitters – Rhys Hoskins and J.T. Realmuto between them in Game 1, making matchups a difficult decision for Oli Marmol.

Both Matz and Thompson have been extremely impressive out of the bullpen for St. Louis. Matz since returning from the IL has thrown 5.1 innings out of the pen, allowing just 1 hit and 1 run. Thompson since the All-Star Break has a 1.23 ERA in 12 appearances. In a win or go home spot for St. Louis, the club will need their dominance to continue.