<p>Suarez’s readiness to back up Nola gives Thomson valuable bullpen flexibility and a path to multi-inning relief if the start sours.</p><p>His versatility can shape late-inning planning and preserve the Phillies’ bullpen for a potential Game 4, making him a key wildcard in a high-stakes NLDS tilt.</p>

Suarez could be activated from the bullpen if needed, adding long-relief depth after his late-season thigh injury.

Suárez could be deployed in relief as Philadelphia braces for a pivot in Game 3. His use highlights the Phillies’ relief agility, yet it underscores the bullpen’s critical role in stymieing the Dodgers’ depth if the series extends.

Ranger Suárez is the bullpen anchor with postseason pedigree (3-1, 1.43 ERA in 10 playoff outings) and a 3.20 ERA on the season. Though a thigh scare lingered, Thomson intends him as a leveraged reliever in Game 1, offering a trusted option to finish late innings and bridge to the late bullpen in Games 2 and beyond.

Suarez anchors PHI’s lefty-heavy rotation plan; his ability to navigate Dodgers’ power from the left side is pivotal for series odds and fantasy outcomes.