Dodgers’ Pitching Woes: Record-Breaking Walks and Injury Concerns
Introduction:
The Los Angeles Dodgers had a disappointing game on Sunday, as their pitchers walked a staggering 14 batters, resulting in a 6-3 loss to the San Diego Padres. This marked the most walks the franchise had issued in a game in over 60 seasons. Manager Dave Roberts expressed his frustration, calling it tough to watch. However, this performance is not an isolated incident for the Dodgers, as they have walked 14 batters in a game on three previous occasions in their history.
Dodgers’ Pitching Struggles Continue:
Starting pitcher James Paxton had a particularly rough outing, issuing a career-worst eight walks. He admitted to not having a feel for his pitches, which has been evident throughout the season, as he has accumulated 14 walks in just 16 innings. Paxton’s struggles were compounded by Ryan Brasier and J.P. Feyereisen, who also walked multiple batters, allowing the Padres to load the bases and ultimately secure the victory. Manager Dave Roberts described the collective effort as alarming and emphasized the importance of not playing with fire by giving away free passes.
Injury Concerns Highlight Dodgers’ Lack of Depth:
While the Dodgers may have dodged a bullet with Bobby Miller’s shoulder injury, it has shed light on the team’s lack of depth in their pitching rotation. Miller, who had been complaini about discomfort in his right shoulder for weeks, was placed on the injured list. Fortunately, an MRI revealed no structural damage, bringing some relief. However, Miller’s absence has highlighted the limited options behind him in the rotation. Ryan Yarbrough has been used as a long relief option, leaving a vacancy in Miller’s spot. Prospect Kyle Hurt is being considered as a potential replacement, but the team’s options are limited.
Rehabilitation Challenges for Key Starters:
The Dodgers already face challenges with Clayton Kershaw and Dustin May on the injured list until at least midseason. Walker Buehler, who is recovering from his second Tommy John surgery, was expected to make a rehab start but suffered a setback when he took a comebacker off his pitching hand. Despite this setback, Buehler could potentially join the rotation during the upcoming road trip. Additionally, Emmet Sheehan, who had been progressing in his recovery, has experienced setbacks and will require a longer period of rest.
Gavin Stone’s Breakthrough Performance:
With the absence of key starters, Gavin Stone has been given an opportunity to prove himself in the rotation. In his recent start against the Padres, Stone delivered his best performance yet as a major leaguer. He took a perfect game into the sixth inning and completed 6 2/3 innings of two-run ball. Stone’s success can be attributed to a shift in pitch usage, primarily relying on his sinker. This adjustment has allowed him to open up his arsenal and become more effective against both right-handed and left-handed hitters.
Blake Treinen’s Return Bolsters Bullpen:
Relief pitcher Blake Treinen, who had been plagued by shoulder issues in previous seasons, was expected to make a comeback this year. However, a line drive to his ribs during spring training delayed his return. On Sunday, Treinen took an important step in his recovery by facing hitters for the first time since his injury. He is set to have two more sessions before going on a rehab assignment, which will provide much-needed reinforcement to the Dodgers’ bullpen.
Conclusion:
The Los Angeles Dodgers’ pitching struggles have been evident in their recent game against the San Diego Padres. The team issued a record-breaking number of walks and faced injury concerns with key starters like Bobby Miller and Walker Buehler. The lack of depth in their rotation has become a pressing issue, forcing the team to consider prospects and make adjustments. However, Gavin Stone’s breakthrough performance and Blake Treinen’s impending return offer some hope for the Dodgers as they navigate through these challenges.