Chris Sale is unlikely to pitch in the Braves-Padres wild card series

The Atlanta Braves just received more bad injury news.

After the Braves secured their spot in the postseason with a victory in the second game of a doubleheader against the New York Mets on Monday, they received some disappointing information. Star starter Chris Sale is unlikely to start in Atlanta's wild-card series against the San Diego Padres.

Sale was ready to start the second game of the doubleheader after the Braves lost the first, 8-7. He suffered from back spasms and was scratched just before the game and was replaced by Grant Holmes. Atlanta manager Brian Snitker doesn't plan on having his best starter any time soon.

After the game, Snitker said he didn't expect a sale for any of the three possible games against the Padres.

Sale is the odds-on favorite to win the National League Cy Young Award after an outstanding season. The 35-year-old left-hander finished the 2024 season with an 18-3 record, an NL-best 2.38 ERA, a 1.01 WHIP and 225 strikeouts in 177 2/3 innings.

The Braves have been plagued by injuries this season. Star righty Spencer Strider missed most of the year after undergoing Tommy John surgery, while reigning NL MVP Ronald Acuna Jr. and All-Star third baseman Austin Riley are also out for the season.

Atlanta's rotation is in flux as the team heads west to face the Padres.