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MLB Playoff Picture 2021: Most Important X-Factors for World Series Games

The Atlanta and Houston bullpens were always going to play a major role in determining the World Series, but two pitchers that are not in the high-leverage roles could be the true difference-makers in relief as the series shifts toward Atlanta.

Houston's Cristian Javier delivered 1.1 innings of solid relief in Game 2 after Jose Urquidy exited the ball game.

Javier has starting experience, but he has been used a long man out of the bullpen in the postseason. His pitching could be vital to Houston's success as it approaches a potential bullpen game in Game 4 and if one of the starters fails to get into the fifth inning.