Michael Kopech will start Game 6 of the National League Championship Series for the Los Angeles Dodgers, who plan to use multiple relief pitchers to try to win their 25th NL pennant.
The right-handed pitcher begins Sunday’s bullpen game at Dodger Stadium against the New York Mets, who are down 3-2 in the best-of-seven series.
“Just feel that it’s the best chance to put up a zero in the first inning and then move forward,” manager Dave Roberts said before the game. “We’re going to deploy a lot of different guys.”
Kopech last pitched on Wednesday in Game 3, where he had a successful outing, getting the win by striking out one batter in one scoreless inning.
He has played in five playoff games, allowing just one hit and walking two while striking out six in 4 1/3 scoreless innings.
Kopech joined the Dodgers from the Chicago White Sox during a three-team trade at the July deadline. In his 24 games with the Dodgers, he has a 4-0 record with a 1.13 ERA, 29 strikeouts, and six saves in 24 innings.
Kopech is among several well-rested Dodgers relievers heading into the game.
All-Star first baseman Freddie Freeman will not be in the lineup. He has been dealing with a sprained right ankle and will be replaced by Max Muncy, who will bat fifth.
“He just felt, we felt, that giving him another day is best for him,” Roberts said. “Just doesn’t feel like himself.”
