During his media session prior to Game-4 of the 2021 National League Division Series at Dodger Stadium on Tuesday afternoon, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts told reporters that minutes after his team defeated the San Francisco Giants in Game-2 of the series behind the brilliant pitching of 25-year-old left-hander Julio Urías, Game-1 starter (and losing pitcher) Walker Buehler told him – in no uncertain terms – that he would be available to pitch on short rest in the best-of-five series if needed.

He was needed, he did, and he was outstanding.

Down two games to one in the best-of-five series and on four days rest, Buehler gave his manager 4.1 innings and 71 pitches (42 strikes) while allowing only one run on three hits with two walks and four strikeouts in the Dodgers eventual 7-2 win over their division rivals.

“When our back’s against the wall, we’ve got a guy named Walker Buehler getting us out of it, so he did it again today,” Dodgers right fielder Mookie Betts told reporters after the game.

Although Buehler fell two-thirds of an inning shy of qualifying for the win, he – and the Dodgers – will gladly take it, as they have forced a ‘Do-or-Die / Win-or-Go-Home Game-5, which will be played at Oracle Park on Thursday evening at 6:07 p.m. PT.

So, who will start that, the single biggest game of the 2021 season (thus far) for the Dodgers? Why, Julio Urías, of course – and on normal rest, thanks to Wednesday’s off day. Urías will be opposed by Giants ace right-hander (and Game-1 winner) Logan Webb.

“This is what baseball wants,” Roberts said postgame on Tuesday night. “All the (other) series are done, so we’re going to be the only show in town. If you have a pulse or you’re a sports fan, you better be watching Dodgers-Giants. It’s going to be a great one.”

Asked if future Hall of Famer Max Scherzer, who was charged with the 1-0 Game-3 loss on Monday night at Dodger Stadium, would be available on short rest behind Urías, Roberts answered with an emphatic “No.”

Sort of.

“…but I’ve been known to change my mind,” Roberts added after a short pause with a wry grin on his face.

Stay Tuned.

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