Big Hits And Baseball’s Hottest Team: 4 Takeaways From First Day Of MLB Playoffs

The format of the wild-card series means that after one game, you are already on the brink of elimination. Thanks to stellar pitching and some big bats, the Yankees and Padres took care of business to leave the Red Sox and Cubs, respectively, on the verge of an early exit. Meanwhile, the Braves rallied past the Phillies with some late-inning theatrics, while the White Sox cruised past the Astros. Here are our takeaways: Rowan Kavner: Braves infielder Austin Riley grinded through the worst offensive season of his eight-year career. Jhoan Duran was the one reliable piece in the Phillies’ shaky…