What It Means:

Manager Mike Matheny ultimately didn't like the chances of his other options (Lance Lynn, Jaime Garcia, Tyler Lyons) sending the series back to St. Louis, so he'll go with the reliable veteran on three days' rest. Lackey has made two postseason starts on short rest in his career, producing a 1.69 ERA. He'll oppose Jason Hammel.

In Game 1 of the series, Lackey was in complete command, limiting the Cubs to just two singles and a walk over 7 1/3 scoreless innings.