Your Thursday NLDS guide – Which teams will hit first?

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The Rockies have had an end-of-season spurt, a division defeat and suspense to eliminate the Cubs. The Brewers won seven straight strikes to take Chicago from Central and then won the division crown with a tight win on Monday in Wrigley. And the Dodgers tried to hang up at Colorado before heading west in Game 163. Meanwhile, the Braves took a step back and took advantage of the chaos, having conquered the East almost two weeks ago.

But they are all on a level playing field now.

The most important thing of the day: As they embark for the post-season, each of the four teams carries luggage. The 30 years of drought that hit the Dodgers, despite their large market and high payroll, have been well documented and they are trying to become the first NL team to recover from their loss to World Series Match 7. year. Just as aggravating (perhaps more), the Braves lost eight consecutive playoff series, the second-longest series of all time. (We consider wild-card games as "series" here.) In the other series, the Brewers have not participated in the World Series since 1982, while still in the American League, and the Rockies did not win. everything since – forever.

NHLL Match 1: Colorado Rockies at Milwaukee Brewers

Antonio Senzatela (6-6, 4.38) compared to Brandon Woodruff (3-0, 3.61), at 17:07. ET, FS1

Challenges: The two most popular baseball teams – Colorado won 10 out of 12, including the wild card win, and Milwaukee won eight in a row and 10 out of 11 – are trying to calm down and strengthen.

If the Rockies win: They could suddenly have a huge advantage in this series, thanks in part to the spin-offs of a decisive game on pitchers' plans. After Game 2 on Friday, they will return home to Colorado, tied or 2-0, with two aces, German Marquez and Kyle Freeland, likely to play games 3 and 4 in Denver.

If the brewers win: This "playoff adventure" could make its way, at least with manager Craig Counsell, whose pen could be the most powerful of all.

A key statistic to know: The Rockies were only 2-5 against the Brewers this season, their worst record against a team.

The game that matters most: Christian Yelich against anyone. You've probably noticed that Yelich is pretty sexy. Make your choice: last week, his OPS was 2.126; the last two weeks it is 1,677; since September 1st, it is 1.313. Do Rocky Mountain pitchers have an answer?

The prediction: Look for a lot of newcomers in this game. The Rockies will start with Senzatela, who has given one point in each of his last three starts, but he is unlikely to get to the bottom of the game. The Brewers could have started Wade Miley in regular rest, but instead they are going to play Bullpen with Woodruff as an "opener". As you saw in the game of cards, the Rockies do not hit much on the road. If you manage to cross Nolan Arenado and Trevor Story without any damage, you have the impression that you can close the bottom of the list. The Brewers have won eight straight games. Make it new, Counsell brilliantly occupying his relievers and his supporters – the most underrated fan base of the majors – encouraging the Brewers to go 4-2. – David Schoenfield

Match 1 of the LNDS: Atlanta Braves against the Los Angeles Dodgers

Mike Foltynewicz (13-10, 2h85) vs. Hyun-Jin Ryu (7-3, 1:97), ETA 8:37 pm

Challenges: Many young Braves will have a taste of the post-season, so they must protect themselves from being overwhelmed by the moment. The Dodgers will try to take advantage of their great experience.

If the Braves win: They will be delighted to have their first game behind them and in the winning column. They will also play the season series. Atlanta lost five of the seven defeats to the Dodgers and was beaten 35-18.

If the Dodgers win: They will feel good to have Clayton Kershaw in reserve to start the second game with a chance to take a decisive lead in the 2-0 series.

A key statistic to know: The Braves earned the second highest score in the NHL against left-handed pitchers (0.780), who come into play against Ryu and Kershaw. Ozzie Albies (.335 BA, .905 OPS) and Ronald Acuna Jr. (.302, .992) benefited the most from left-wing clashes.

The game that matters most: The bench of the Dodgers against the arm of the Braves. L.A. has the most complete formation in the playoffs and Atlanta could have the most depressed record. As a result, as the game progresses, Braves manager Brian Snitker will have trouble finding favorable opponents.

The prediction: The Dodgers surprised Ryu over Kershaw, but Kershaw posted a 1.88 ERA in nine starts after being dropped from the disabled list in August. In addition, Ryu could stay on break in the fourth game and Kershaw in regular rest in the fifth game if necessary. The Dodgers fired better against the right-handed pitchers (.458 slugging against .409 against lefties), giving Max Muncy and Cody Bellinger the advantage in the pack and allowing Joc Pederson to be in the lineup. Foltynewicz has had a phenomenal season and his feats are absurd, but I love all that left-handed power in LA's lineup – not to mention Justin Turner and Manny Machado. The dodgers take it 5-2. – David Schoenfield