'This is mine': Sale tops 100 mph, goes distance
Chris Sale threw his two fastest pitches since 2018, both to Shohei Ohtani, in his first complete game since 2019 as the Braves clinched a sweep of the Dodgers.
Chris Sale is back, and it couldn't have come at a better time for the Atlanta Braves. The lefty's complete game against the Dodgers not only sealed the sweep but also showcased his dominant form, particularly his blazing fastball that topped 100 mph. This performance is a significant boost to Sale's and the Braves' momentum as they look to make a deep postseason run.
What's noteworthy here is Sale's velocity, which has been a concern in recent years, especially after his fastball dipped below 95 mph in 2022. Hitting 100 mph, and doing so against a formidable hitter like Shohei Ohtani, no less, is a promising sign. It indicates that Sale has regained some of the speed that made him one of the most feared pitchers in the game. This development could have significant implications for the Braves' pitching rotation as they head into the playoffs.
As the Braves look to build on this momentum, the next thing to watch is how Sale's performance impacts the team's postseason chances. With a strong showing like this, Atlanta could be positioning itself as a serious contender. The question now is whether Sale can maintain this level of performance and if the rest of the team can follow suit. The upcoming games will be crucial in determining the Braves' trajectory, and fans will be eagerly watching to see if this win is a turning point in their season.
Originally reported by espn.com. TourNews adds analysis for sports & fitness readers.