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Atlanta Braves: Tyler Matzek becoming ultimate fireman

By David Hill

Oct 23, 2021; Cumberland, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Braves relief pitcher Tyler Matzek (68) pitches during the eighth inning against the Los Angeles Dodgers in game six of the 2021 NLCS at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 23, 2021; Cumberland, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Braves relief pitcher Tyler Matzek (68) pitches during the eighth inning against the Los Angeles Dodgers in game six of the 2021 NLCS at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports /
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Tyler Matzek took a strange route to becoming a key part of the Atlanta Braves bullpen. The former 11th overall selection by the Rockies in the 2009 MLB Draft, he was plagued by Steve Blass Disease, the former top prospect seeing his career fall apart. He would eventually leave the game 2017, and spent the 2018 campaign in the American Association. The Braves signed him in August 2019 after he was released by Arizona, hoping they could walk him through his issues.

It has been a remarkable turn of events for Matzek. He had pitched well as a reliever upon his return to the AA, sparking that interest in the Braves. That interest has been rewarded as Matzek has become the ultimate fireman during their playoff run.

Tyler Matzek rewarding Atlanta Braves’ faith

Matzek has emerged as a dominant reliever during his time in Atlanta. He has posted a 2.64 ERA and a 1.196 WHiP in his 92 innings since his return to the majors, striking out 120 batters with 47 walks. He has also done an impressive job of keeping the ball in the yard, allowing just four homers in that span.

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Come the postseason, Matzek has been a completely different animal. He has allowed just three runs on ten hits and seven walks over 19 innings, striking out 31 batters. Those strikeout numbers are even better this year, as he has struck out 17 batters in 10.1 innings, allowing only three unintentional walks.

The Braves have needed every bit of this performance. Their bullpen, particularly closer Will Smith, has been shaky at times. Having someone that they can turn to to get those key outs, especially with runners in scoring position, makes a major difference.

Those are the kinds of outs that can change a ballgame. Instead of having the momentum and a couple of runs on the board, Matzek can stop the bleeding, keeping the other team off the scoreboard and allowing the Braves to keep their lead. That makes a major difference, especially in a short series where one pitch could decide who wins and loses.

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Tyler Matzek has emerged as the Atlanta Braves’ new fireman. It has been a long journey to get to this point, but it is a role he deserves.

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