St. Louis Cardinals vs. Los Angeles Dodgers 2014 NLDS: Game 3 start time now official; Game 4's up in the air

One of the frustrating things about the division series is the schedule. The first two game times are announced only after the wild-card outcome is known. Then, game three (as well as games four and five, if necessary) is up in the air, often dependent on whether other division series have ended in a sweep or not. And that is just what we have gone through with the 2014 St. Louis Cardinals vs. Los Angeles Dodgers NLDS.

But Monday night's game start time has come into crystal clear focus after the outcome the Royals vs. Angels ALDS Game 3. Because Kansas City completed a three-game sweep of Los Angeles of Anaheim, NLDS Game 3 between the Cardinals and Dodgers will start at 8:07 p.m. CT as opposed to 8:37 p.m. CT—so Midwesterners will get an extra half-hour of sleep, thank goodness.

Cardinals vs. Dodgers NLDS Game 3

Monday, October 6, 2014

Start time: 8:07 p.m. CT

Network: Fox Spots 1

The first pitch for NLDS Game 4 on Tuesday night in St. Louis won't be known until after the Giants and Nationals finish their Game 3 in San Francisco on Monday. If the Nats win and force a Game 4, the Cards and Dodgers will play 4:07 p.m. CT. If the San Francisco completes a three-game sweep of Washington on Monday, Tuesday's St. Louis vs. Los Angeles NLDS Game 4 will start at 7:37 p.m.

Cardinals vs. Dodgers NLDS Game 4

(if San Francisco beats Washington on Monday)

Tuesday, October 7, 2014

Start time: 7:37 p.m. CT

Network: Fox Sports 1

- OR -

(if Washington beats San Francisco on Monday)

Tuesday, October 6, 2014

Start time: 4:07 p.m. CT

Network: Fox Sports 1