Hello! This is a post about “openers.” For those not in the know about this occasionally-mentioned, topsy-turvy idea, an “opener” refers to the use of a short-stint reliever to start a game, before letting the starter take over. The reason why openers are a hot topic this season is because the Tampa Bay Rays have embraced the strategy to some extent over the last few weeks, putting into practice something that had only been splashed across the internet in years prior. (Yes, there were some instances in decades past of managers using openers in some playoff games or other key contests, but it hasn’t been used a “regular season strategy” the way the Rays have implemented it, at least not until now.
Openers: Intriguing idea, but the Braves may not have the right personnel
