Dodgers Suffer Major Blow with Loss of Key Reliever
The Los Angeles Dodgers have been dealt a significant setback in their pursuit of the National League Championship Series title. Lefty reliever Alex Vesia has injured an intercostal muscle, rendering him “highly unlikely” to pitch in the NLCS, according to manager Dave Roberts.
A Crucial Loss for the Dodgers’ Bullpen
Vesia’s injury is a major blow to a team that relies heavily on its bullpen. The lefty reliever had been dominant for most of the regular season, posting a 1.76 ERA with 87 strikeouts in 66⅓ innings. His absence will be felt, particularly against the New York Mets, who lean more heavily right-handed than the Dodgers’ previous opponent, the San Diego Padres.
Navigating the Postseason with a Thin Rotation
The Dodgers are navigating the postseason with a three-man rotation comprising Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Walker Buehler, and Jack Flaherty. With Yamamoto receiving an extra day of rest between starts, he will only be available to pitch once in the series, likely in Game 4. This means the Dodgers may have to stage two bullpen games in the best-of-seven series.
A Patchwork Bullpen
While the Dodgers have a number of relievers who can pitch in higher leverage, they will be one notable arm short without Vesia. Michael Kopech, Blake Treinen, Evan Phillips, Daniel Hudson, Ryan Brasier, and Anthony Banda will all be called upon to contribute. Landon Knack, the team’s only other starting-pitching option, may also be required to take down some bulk innings.
Exploring Options for the NLCS
Manager Dave Roberts acknowledged the possibility of a bullpen game or two in the series. “We’re going to have to ask innings from other guys,” he said. “That’s just the reality. I don’t think that in a seven-game series we have the luxury to max out guys like we did from the ‘pen in a five-game series.” The Dodgers may also consider activating Brent Honeywell, a 29-year-old right-hander who has been nursing a cracked fingernail but has been throwing in simulated games.
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