Here are five matchups to watch in the National League Division Series:
Josh Hader vs. the playoff workload
The credo of the relief pitcher is to never admit weariness, to always take the ball when asked. But Hader's relationship with Brewers pitching coach Derek Johnson and manager Craig Counsell is more proactive than that, more open and honest, because they all understand and acknowledge the obvious: He's a better pitcher when he has more rest. His stuff is better. And as he demonstrated again against the Cubs in Game No. 163, when he threw his four fastest pitches of the season, Hader can be the best bullpen weapon in baseball when he's at his best.
The challenge for Counsell is to find proper rest for Hader within the more intense circumstances of the playoffs. The built-in off days for every series will help, but Counsell will have to continue to be disciplined, as he was all year, in his use of the left-hander. Hader made just 55 appearances during the season, with the vast majority in high-leverage moments.
Two years ago, Andrew Miller dominated the postseason and propelled the Indians into the World Series. Indians manager Terry Francona used him liberally -- in any close game, and not just when Cleveland was ahead. There will be situations in which Counsell might be tempted to call on Hader, because in October, every situation seems like a high-leverage moment.
