What happened: Manager Walt Weiss finalized the decision to start Chris Sale in Game 3 after meeting with him on Sunday morning. Weiss emphasized the move was made to guarantee they get a fully operational pitcher on the mound.

Why it matters: Delaying the assignment avoids rushing the veteran back for Game 2 following his bullpen appearance on Thursday. With the opponent unable to clinch the NLDS in two games, the coaching staff opted to maximize his recovery window.

What to watch: Sale takes the mound for Game 3 as the rotation solidifies for the deeper stages of the series.