**Braves Face Do-Or-Die Wild Card Game Amidst Grueling Schedule**

With their seventh game in six days approaching, the Atlanta Braves are grappling with an overburdened bullpen and the pressure of another elimination game. The Braves' whirlwind week included Hurricane Helene causing the postponement of two crucial games against the Mets, forcing a Monday doubleheader. This was followed by a rapid cross-country flight to San Diego to begin the postseason on Tuesday. Consequently, the bullpen has been heavily utilized, and five of their starting pitchers were rendered unavailable for the first playoff game.

In a further blow, ace Chris Sale was scratched from the Wild Card roster due to back spasms. This unexpected development forced the Braves to start their seventh-ranked pitcher, AJ Smith-Shawver, in Game One of the playoffs. Predictably, Smith-Shawver struggled, surrendering three earned runs in just over one inning. Despite the bullpen's best efforts to contain the damage, the Braves’ offense faltered against a dominant performance by Michael King.

Now, the Braves turn to Max Fried for stability. Fried has been exceptional recently, boasting a 2.39 ERA and 2.82 FIP over his last eight starts. His most recent outing saw him pitch 8.2 shutout innings with nine strikeouts against the Royals. The Braves are banking heavily on Fried to extend their postseason run and keep their championship hopes alive.

Nevertheless, tonight's game places exceptional strain on an already overextended bullpen. Several relievers face multiple days of heavy usage. Aaron Bummer has pitched in the last two games, amassing nearly three innings on Monday alone. Raisel Iglesias could appear in his fifth game in six days, while Joe Jiménez, Dylan Lee, Orlando Hernández, and Luke Jackson would each pitch their third game in four days if called upon. Veteran Charlie Morton, surprisingly included on the Wild Card roster, might also contribute an inning in what could be a critical relief effort.

Despite the fatigue, the Braves' bullpen has exhibited resilience all season. The team is hopeful that adrenaline and determination will drive their relievers through another challenging game. However, an outstanding performance by Fried could save the bullpen from further wear and tear, offering a sliver of relief to the exhausted group. The Braves' collective effort and fighting spirit will be tested once more as they aim to stay alive in their quest for postseason glory.