What happened: Misiorowski kept the opposition off the board through the middle frames while working with an early lead built by three straight singles from the Nos. 7, 8, and 9 hitters. The right-hander returned to the mound after starting Game 1 of the World Series on Oct. 23.

Why it matters: Completing the fifth inning in an elimination game leaves the relief corps with 12 outs to secure the title. Taking the ball twice within six days underscores the rotation's reliance on its opener with the championship on the line.

What to watch: Relief usage over the final four frames will determine whether the title is decided in the fifth game or extended to a sixth contest.