When the Atlanta Braves turned to Chris Sale as a reliever in their Game 3 matchup of the National League Wild Card Series, questions instantly emerged in reference to how Atlanta would use Sale in the National League Division Series. It seemed as if Sale could have been an option on short-rest in Game 2 of the NLDS, but the Braves ultimately found a way to win without turning to their ace on Sunday against the Los Angeles Dodgers. The series is now headed back to Atlanta even at 1-1 with Sale set to start Game 3. According to manager Walt Weiss, this is the “best scenario” for the Braves in the NLDS.

“To us, it’s the best case scenario as we possibly can,” Weiss said, via Bob Nightengale of USA Today. “Now, we have a fresh Chris Sale ready to go.”

If Game 5 ends up being necessary, Sale will reportedly be available out of the bullpen as well.

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Of course, the Braves would prefer to win Games 3 and 4 in Atlanta and clinch a series victory. Having to head back to LA for a winner-takes-all Game 5 would not be ideal. Nevertheless, the Braves are simply looking to upset the two-time defending champions — and they won't complain about a series win even if Game 5 is necessary.

Atlanta won Game 2 by a final score of 3-2. The Dodgers did not play their best game, but the Braves still performed well. Taking at least one matchup in LA was the goal, and Atlanta is now in a good position with the series shifting back to Truist Park.

Chris Sale will look to turn in another stellar outing and lead the Braves to a massive Game 3 victory on Tuesday.