PHILADELPHIA — The Atlanta Braves picked right-hander Bryce Elder to begin Game 3 of the NL Division Series in opposition to the Philadelphia Phillies on Wednesday.

Elder (12-4, 3.81) struggled down the stretch after pitching a career-high 174 2/3 innings in his first full season within the huge leagues. But the Braves determined he was your best option to face Philadelphia’s Aaron Nola (12-9, 4.46).

Elder, who was despatched right down to Triple-A Gwinnett throughout spring coaching, was a shocking success over the primary half of the season after being recalled to Atlanta. He was chosen for the All-Star Game and helped the Braves take care of accidents to Kyle Wright and Max Fried.

But Elder posted a 5.11 ERA over 68 2/3 innings in 13 begins after the All-Star break, casting doubt on how he can be used within the postseason. He particularly struggled in his final three appearances, giving up 13 earned runs, 19 hits and eight walks in 12 1/3 innings.

Elder made two begins in opposition to the Phillies through the common season. He pitched seven scoreless innings, permitting simply three hits, on June 22. But he gave up 4 earned runs in 3 2/3 innings, with a season-high 5 walks, on Sept. 20.

The Braves additionally thought of beginning 20-year-old AJ Smith-Shawver, their prime prospect however a rookie who has made solely 5 begins and 6 appearances within the huge leagues.

PHOTOS: RH Bryce Elder will get the nod for Braves in Game 3 of NLDS vs Phillies

The best-of-five sequence was tied at one win apiece, with Games 3 and 4 in Philadelphia.

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