LOS ANGELES — Ranger Suarez had a strong, if variable, regular season. Aaron Nola had a poor season with one redeeming outing in late September against an eliminated team.

But Rob Thomson on Monday night gave Nola the vote of confidence to start Wednesday’s win-or-go-home Game 3 at Dodger Stadium.

Comfort with the role seems to be the main decider.

“He’s more comfortable with starting, one,” Thomson said before a workout in Los Angeles Tuesday. “You’re going to see Ranger tomorrow. I’d be shocked if you don’t see Ranger tomorrow. So (Nola’s) more comfortable starting.

“The numbers on their lefties are very similar, Ranger vs. Nola. The trust factor, I have trust in both of them, don’t get me wrong. Nola has pitched some really great innings.”

Nola went 5-10 with a 6.01 ERA in 17 start

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