So, the Dodgers were swept by the Phillies, proving (according to some) that the Dodgers are a bunch of chokers and losers and will never win anything. I would say that if you believe that, you are probably jumping to the wrong conclusion. I can’t help you! It seems that most Dodger fans can look at this in one of two ways:
- This team is not good enough to compete for a World Championship. However, that would ignore the fact that the Dodgers have the 2nd best record in the NL behind the Phillies who (right now) seem to have everything going their way; or
- The Dodgers have more injuries than any team in baseball and also have three players who are hitting at their worst… EVER! They have two All-Stars (including a player who was in the running for NL MVP) on the IL as well as a full starting rotation and more on the IL.
So, it seems that many fans will gravitate to #1. Why? They always assume the worst.. even if the facts don’t support it. “Damn, the facts… my mind is made up, and I can’t be confused by the facts!” Yeah, I feel you!
However, a rational person could say that the Dodgers are going through a rough stretch, and they have a huge number of players on the IL and a few underperforming players, and while t is not great right now… the cavalry will arrive soon.
This happens every damn year. The Dodgers stumble, and many fans lose their minds, saying they won’t win 100 games or make the playoffs… but then they do. However, in the last three postseasons, they have not done well. I am going to tell you why this year is different. This year, Dave Roberts is running a Country Club. The team is very good; after all, with all of the adversity, they still have the 2nd best record in the National League. But, this year is different in that the team is just focused on getting to the playoffs… not winning a set number of games. At some point in time… probably in August, these guys will have a team meeting, and everyone will unite around a common goal, and that is winning the 2024 World Series.
Dave Roberts said this: “They’re obviously playing much better baseball than we are right now. They’re clearly a stronger team at this moment.” He went on to say: “We didn’t perform well in this series. Our starting pitching, defense, base running, situational hitting, and getting hits— we were outplayed in every aspect.”
There is no avoiding the truth. The Dodgers were thoroughly outmatched by a Phillies team that currently appears superior in nearly every way. Los Angeles’ offense was limited to just five runs, and none of their starting pitchers lasted more than five innings, continuing a troubling trend from the past few weeks. Offensively, the Dodgers are without Mookie Betts, who was arguably the favorite to win the NL MVP Award before suffering a fractured left hand on June 16. They’re also without Max Muncy, who last played on May 15 due to a strained right oblique. Even with some inconsistencies, Muncy provides a constant presence in the middle of the lineup that allows other hitters to slide down in the order.
Those are reasons, not excuses, and the Dodgers need to play better. They will also get some injured players back, but who and when remains to be seen. The Dodgers will be players at the deadline; who they target and who they get are mysteries to us. With a seven-game lead over the Padres, the Dodgers do not feel a sense of urgency. Last year, the Rangers needed to win the final game of the season to win their division, and they lost. They backed into the playoffs, but that loss did not define their season. Getting swept by the Phillies in July does not define the Dodgers either.
I remember the 1988 Dodgers, who were 1-11 against the Mets in the regular season, but in the playoffs, that meant nothing. This team will be galvanized together soon enough, and you will see some spectacular play. Sometimes, these kinds of blips in the road end up forming the character of the team. It’s a process, and the Dodgers know what just happened. They will remember. This series was a strange one. The Phillies got some soft contact that turned into hits, and the way the game ended was emblematic of what this series was about. Patience Grasshoppers! In their last 44 games, the Dodgers are 22-22. This too, shall pass. Should they have traded this guy?
The Dodgers look broken. Well, the pitching staff is broken. Whether they come back healthy and ready to go at some point is definitely up in the air. Initially injuries seem minor, but then they extend, it’s obvious not everything is well. Okay, I’m thinking Glasnow, Yamamoto should be okay at some point.
But the line-up seems to a mess. Definitely could use another bat or two. The deadline is near, the Dodgers obviously need to prioritize. Pitching or hitting or a bit of both.
What is with the Dodgers and injuries? Obviously it has to be in he training and weight lifting programs. Too many pulls, tears and strains. Seems like their pitchers are getting hurt all the time.
Okay, the Walker Buehler thing is weird. Are they writing him off? In spring they seem to have been counting on his recovery. Now, not so much. Is it his head or something else?
At some point Mookie Betts will be back. In the meantime, he has been pretty good in the booth, definitely adds insight.
As for the sky is falling, the Dodgers have been here many times. Usually a couple of times each summer they hit a big pothole and a wheel falls off. But they always seem to recover and win the division.
Any updates on Clayton Kershaw?
From the Dodger’s Official Page:
LHP Clayton Kershaw (left shoulder surgery)
Expected return: Late July or early August
Kershaw, who went through a two-inning simulated game at Dodger Stadium on July 7, is scheduled to pitch three innings with Triple-A Oklahoma City on July 13. If that goes well, Kershaw’s next step would be to get through a four-inning rehab start. Once that’s completed, the Dodgers “will have the conversation” of bringing the left-hander back into the rotation, according to manager Dave Roberts. A couple of hurdles remain, but Kershaw continues to get closer to a return. (Last updated: July 9)
Apparently, Buehler has his own opinions on how he should train and pitch and wants to work independently. The Dodgers have to respect that… even if they disagree. Time will tell.
Clayton will be back soon … maybe B4 August.
sbuffalo, I agree that the Buehler situation is weird. If/when several of the injured pitchers (Glasnow, Yamamoto, Kershaw) return in the next few weeks then I doubt we will see Buehler pitch for the Dodgers. And, I seriously doubt they offer him a contract for next year. With the young pitchers they have coming up I don’t see a need for him in the future. It’s a sad deal in that I really enjoying watching him pitch and his clutch performances. History shows that hard throwing wiry guys have a shortened pitching career.
And their in season slumps are usually from poor hitting and sometimes pitching from the BP. This year they have added injuries into the mix. This causes the low points this year to be longer than in the past. Dodger baseball is not fun to watch right now. I’m definitely looking forward to that changing. Healthy players are the key now and in the future in order to have a shot at a championship.
He is in Florida training with Cressy sports. He is already throwing bullpens there. He is also communicating with the Dodger coaching staff. I think with Buehler, it is all about his mechanics. He probably will not be offered a deal unless he comes back and shows them, he is some semblance of his old self.
Not much to add to this:
https://www.truebluela.com/2024/7/11/24196900/dodgers-roster-shakeup-needed
Go Dodgers!!!!!!!!
It should be understood that if the Dodgers replace Lux, Biggio, and Outman (who has looked lost lately) with Betts, Muncy, and another hitter or two, their offense would be (far and away) the best in baseball.
Agreed.
But I would rather keep Lux over Kike on the roster. Do not need both CT and Kike on the roster. With all his problems Lux still is hitting bettter than Kike and CT.
A bench of Barnes, Lux, Heyward and CT would be okay for me.
Go Dodgers!!!!!!!!!1
They need a better outfielder than what Pages and Outman are now. Pages hasn’t done much with the bat, and he still is not an MLB caliber center fielder. Trade one, demote the other and get an outfielder who actually can catch the ball and hit. And Vargas is no left fielder either. But I prefer his bat over Outman’s.
Lux has become a platoon second baseman who lacks the versatility of Taylor and Kike. That’s not a small thing.
Actually, Taylor has started hitting. Over the past 30 days, Taylor has hit to a .941 OPS, which is second only to Shohei.
Lux, meanwhile, has hit to a .560 OPS over the period.
That’s better than Biggio or Kike, which isn’t saying much.
Eric, can you point me to where I said that I would keep Kike over Outman?
Eric nailed it.
So, are you essentially calling me a liar?
No, I’m not. The “Eric” I referenced is to Eric Stephen, the writer of the article linked above.
If you’ll take time to look, you’ll notice my comment was in reply to “dodgerram,” ..not to what Eric wrote.
Then I apologize! It ios not always clear who the comment was directed to.
Again, I am sorry!
The other Eric is just making shit up and I thought you were agreeing with him. He thought it too. 😉
I’m waiting for you to show me that quote, Eric!
As I thought – You can’t because you made it up!
A few days ago, I did write this:
First of all, I want to welcome back James Outman who went 2-4 . He could have sulked when he got sent back to OKC after finishing #3 in the NL ROY balloting… but he did not. He went to OKC and went about his business and here he is back in the Show. I love James Outman and his story, his hustle, his grit, and it’s time for Dodger fans to realize his value. Quit including him in trades. He is a good defensive centerfielder (who will get better with experience) and should hit RHP very well. I do not believe he will ever hit LHP, but since RH Pitchers comprise about 70% of all pitchers, he should get 500 ABs and be a solid contributor. He should be a 30+ HR guy. Andy Pages should be his platoon partner.
It’s Bullshit for you to say this:
It’s like Outman killed one of your loved ones and Kike gave you a billion dollars.
I like James, but I do not think he can hit LHP and the fact is: He is struggling (Miguel Vargas is too).
I am sick of your and Waynes’ Bullshit and unless you both apologize and stop the shit, You are both gone!
Not worried this is what baseball fans do….freak out when their team hits a rough patch. There is no way this is the roster that they will be running out there in October. I’ll reassess on August 1st where we are at and my guess is Friedman will be all in and they certainly have the assets to get much better.
Thursday scores
Oklahoma City 5, El Paso 0
Tulsa 6, Corpus Christi 5
Game 1 — Great Lakes 4, Fort Wayne 1
Game 2 — Fort Wayne 3, Great Lakes 2
Rancho Cucamonga 8, Stockton 7
Friday schedule
4:05 p.m. PT: Great Lakes (Jackson Ferris) vs. Fort Wayne (Henry Baez)
5 p.m.: Tulsa (Orlando Ortiz-Mayr) vs. Corpus Christi (Joey Mancini)
5:05 p.m.: Oklahoma City (Hyun-il Choi) vs. El Paso (Luke Westphal)
7:05 p.m.: Rancho Cucamonga (Luke Fox) at Stockton (Corey Avant)
“Alex Freeland had three hits, including an RBI double, and stole a base for Double-A Tulsa, continuing a roughly two-week hot streak in a strong season”.
I am on the fence as to whether Freeland could be MLB SS. Two years ago, I didn’t think he could be a utility guy, but he just keeps exceeding expectations. Do not underestimate this kid.
Ferris’ last start as a Dodger?
Hope not. Ferris is the real deal. Rather give up Wrobleski .
What would Kikuchi cost ? Flaherty ? Both on expiring contracts so the cost should be not as high as for a Crochet.
Arozarena ? What would be his cost ?
If we can get those three players we could even absorb if Yamamoto does not reutrun this year.
Go Dodgers!!!!!!!!!!!
Well, you and I are at odds there. Wrobleski is already in the rotation, and he pitched pretty well considering. Keep them both, and trade someone else. Knack would be my choice.
They had an interesting question on the Dodger Blue podcast:
Would you be happy with the trade dealine if the Dodgers were able to haul in 2 out of 3 from Eovaldi/Kikuchi/Flaherty PLUS 2 our of 3 from Pham/Winker&Canha/ ?
Me: I would be extremely happy with that kind of haul. Especially with those pitchers. and all three would be only rentals costing not as much as Crochet in prospects and not blocking others for 2025
Arozarena and Bellinger both would be good options too. Belli would fill several needs . LH bat plus great defense in CF.
There are some very good options out there for the Dodgers and AF. Lets see what he can do.
Go Dodgers!!!!!!!!!!!1
Bellinger is on the IL with a broken finger after being hit by a pitch.
What an uninspiring showing by the Dodgers in Philly. This was highlighted by James Outman’s perfect six plate appearances. K, K, K, K, K, K. Consistency is not always good! His return to the Dodgers has been a huge disappointment. In the past 14 games he has struck out at a 45% clip supported by a .128 BA. Unfortunately, James has proven to be a AAAA player. Back to OKC you go.
Next up…. How about Ryan Ward and his 25 HR / 1.021 OPS? The much heralded Dodger “depth” is damn near zero right now. Between injuries, poor results from half the position players, and refusal to call up their so called “depth” results in the current record for the past few weeks. And, they have called up their MLB ready pitching prospects who have done well in their outings. In the most recent Baseball America rankings, other than Freeland, the Dodgers top position players are in the low minors. The result is an older team made up mostly of free agents that has been susceptible to injuries and declining play.
Putting a team together that is the 2024 Dodgers is dominating and awesome to watch when things are clicking on all cylinders. But, when there are injuries compounded by poor output by the supporting (bottom of the order) players and refusal to bring up deserving players from the minors fans get a .500 baseball team that we’ve watched the past few weeks.
Andrew Friedman and Brandon Gomes are in a difficult situation with the July 31 trade deadline. The unknown with all the injuries. Who comes back and when? If they don’t make some moves and then players don’t return when expected or are gone for the season would result in a poor showing in the postseason. With all that has invested by ownership financially, I would think the FO has to make trades with the attitude that many of the injured won’t return and then sort things out player wise if that isn’t the case. Damned if you do, damn if you don’t. Good luck to them.
Carry on.
Well said Mark.
A series in July will NOT define this team.
CF makes an excellent catch on that ball Kike hit, if that drops its a different game.
Had we played the Phils 2 weeks ago, Harper and Schwarber dont play, sometimes its not WHO you play but WHEN you play em.
Will see these guys in LA in August and then if they can get by the Braves again maybe we see em in October.
KIermayer put on waivers by TOR.
Go Dodgers!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Kiermaier??
Rather have Pillar….
Kiermaier is a terrible hitter. He is a very good defensive outfielder, but another player who is under the Mendoza line this year. Whit Merrifield was released by the Phillies today. He also is hitting under .200. Merrifield of a couple of years ago would have been a great pickup. He can play the outfield and the infield. To tell the truth, I would rather have that guy than Kike or Biggio.
They need a quick fix get Nathan Evoladi from Rangers and Jack Flarethy from the Tigers they pick up Tommy Pham and DeJong and Secund baseman Lopez from the whitesoxs and they get Jessie Winker from the Nationals. Replacing Keke Lux Pages Miguel Vargas Outman Heyward ND Biggio with these players and bring in two solid veteran pitcher taht will give you innings then all these minor league kids pitching that aren’t ready. Then when Glasniw cones back and Keeshaw and maybe Bleecker and Betts and Muncy in that order then your ready for the playoffs. Can’t do this with four rookie minor keague pitchers and one vet in Paxton no way and there in Detriot tonight now so go get Flarethy step one the Evoaldi from the Rangers then Pham DeJong Lopez from the whiyesoxs then Winker. Maybe a closer from one of these teams that are sellers
Dude, you just had them trading for six players. It’s like you think this team needs a complete rebuild.
He did that yesterday too. Totally unrealistic idea. He just has no understanding of how it all works. Massive turnovers like that happen in the winter, not during the season.
Dude get rid of the players that aren’t producing and also two pitchers rather then four rookie pitchers that need to be in the minors not the majors. Or they ain’t going to be in the playoffs porcupine
Bear really but iy is being realistic they said Evoladi is on there list Flarethy and DeJong Pham and Winker so I mention them on here and you guys think they don’t need them wow. Okay just keep those six and the rotation we have.
That is not what I said Bradley. No one said they were not needed. Texas has not made a decision to sell, so talking about Eovaldi is premature. Getting DeJong, Pham, Flaherty and Winker would require trading with three different teams. Lux, Vargas and Outman might be the only roster players those teams would be interested in. Taylor, because of his contract is virtually untradeable. Kike is not attractive because he is not hitting. Same with Biggio. The Dodgers might trade for one starter, maybe two if they think they need them. But they fully expect Glasnow and at least Kershaw to be back by August and Yamamoto shortly after that. If Buehler and Miller figure out their problems, then the pitching staff is a lot stronger. Getting rid of six players at the deadline is not something teams usually do. Someone has to want those players. If the Dodgers do not want them, who would? I do not know what they are going to do about the underperforming players. But mass overhauls of a roster by a contending team at the deadline is not something that is usually done.
I just want you to understand something Bradley. You will never get all the players you might want. And for very good reasons. The team that has him might choose other teams offers over yours. Contractual concerns. You mentioned Javier Baez yesterday. Four years ago, he would have been a great choice. But he is under the Mendoza line at .191, has a single homer, and is owed close to 80 million dollars over the next 3 years. The Dodgers fully expect some of the players on the IL to return, and therefore would not feel inclined to trade for a bunch of players they might not need later.
If they’re not producing, who the heck is going to want them? Seems like you want to trade guys who do nothing for guys who do something. I don’t know anywhere in the world that that works.
Bingo.
When your the LA Dodgers yiu can go and get anybody you or the Yankes can porcupine oh yeah where the LA Dodgers not the Pittsburgh Pirates. And the guys I mention to get are going to be freeagents so yes other teams would love to have dodger farm players on there teams. Thats how we get better players or hey veterans I instead of rookies. We can get rid of the bad. players we have by way of DFA like other teams do.
No Bradley, they cannot just go get anyone they want. It just does not work that way. The Dodger farm system is not as loaded as say the Orioles. And teams have to want to trade for what you are offering. You are mistaken if you think they can just go get anyone they want.
No Bradley, they cannot just go get anyone they want. It just does not work that way. The Dodger farm system is not as loaded as say the Orioles. And teams have to want to trade for what you are offering. You are mistaken if you think they can just go get anyone they want.
Not going to extrapolate a below average 12 game stretch into a prediction on the Dodgers for the remainder of the season. If they win 100 or not is no concern. I think that Vargas and Pages need to get fairly consistent at bats for the rest of the year. Johan Rojas of the Phillies bats ninth and is hitting .234 with a .560 OPS. But he is 23 years old. Replacing them, demoting them, or trading them away for a veteran outfielder is not the way to run a baseball team. A lineup with a top 6 of Ohtani, Betts, Freeman, Smith, Muncy, and Hernandez and a bottom three of Vargas, Pages, and Rojas/Dejong/Hoerner would be fine. At some point, you have to give young players (whom you profess to believe in) the opportunity to develop at the major league level. That development will come with failure but that is a part of the process. You could make an argument that if the Dodgers let Muncy walk after last year and made Busch their 3rd baseman they would be better off at this point. (Granting that the trade of Busch netted them two top 10 prospects in their system).
Let’s assume, safely, that the Glasnow injury is just a way to give him some rest and limit his innings. The Dodgers have a better idea of Yamamoto’s likelihood of return than any of us. I share much of the skepticism regarding Dodger injuries – for quite a while these injuries have turned out to be more serious and a much longer timetable of return than we were led to believe at first. However, if the Dodgers feel like Yamamoto will be back and healthy enough to pitch in the playoffs then Glasnow, Stone, and Yamamoto plus some combination of Kershaw/Buehler/Miller/Knack/Wrobleski/Ryan/Gamboa would seem to be enough to get them through the last 60 games and into the playoffs in good shape. I could see them adding a pitcher like Fedde or someone like that but this appears to be a thin market for starting pitching. Joe Davis hinted at this when he was asked what they would do at the trade deadline.
It was reported the Dodgers upped their offer for Crochet. Might be an indication they think or fear that Yamamoto
will not return in 2024.
Go Dodgers!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I heard somewhere that if they get Crochet he won’t be a starting pitcher.
He is already past the most innings he had ever pitched. Many think that if anyone trades for the guy, they are going to have to limit his innings. Hence, being an opener or something else like that and saving him for the playoffs. Ya gotta get there first. That should be the focus.
I’m not worried one damn bit about where the Dodgers are when I look at the standings and see we are 8 ahead in the LOSS column.I will start to worry when it gets 5 and not before!!!!!
They told me the regular season doesn’t matter, now all of a sudden it means EVERYTHING….
This too shall pass and WE WILL PLAY GOOD BASEBALL.
Weird that most of the complaining and crazy trade scenarios come from the same guys who basically say it don’t mean a thing if you don’t have the ring.
No what ut means the dodgers always have had good hitters not six that cant hit and just keep them on the majors roster that’s why we guys say do something in trades and read who there lokking at. Because there’s obviously nothing in the minors to bring up to help.
https://apnews.com/article/baseball-velocity-training-injuries-0c67c7a76125a79e5142d216935f7bd0
Excellent article. It’s a more in-depth version of what I have been saying.
I don’t know how to fix it!
losing the series to the phillies isn’t what worries me. it’s the way they lost it!! the dodgers could easily sweep the phillies when they get to LA. The outfield defense was atrocious! now the infield defense with taylor and kiki was great. but they don’t hit. not gonna criticize rojas for one play, he’s made every other play this season. rojas hit a bullet , teo got caught with his pants down, game over. ….. If the dodgers can include outman in a trade for a good outfielder they should! James is so bad right now, it’s even affecting his defense. …. can’t believe im gonna say this, but if it comes down to lux or kiki, i’m keeping kiki. his offense is awful (as is lux’s) but defensively he’s valuable at multiple positions. Lux, 2nd base. but still believe taylor or kiki , one needs to go. …. Any word on Grove? need him back sooner than later. Yarbrough is not impressing anyone. ….. Believe Stones short outing against the phillies probably cost him any chance at the all star game. Though most of that game wasn’t his doing.
#Dodgers Lineup vs #Tigers LHP, Tarik Skubal:
1. Ohtani DH
2. Smith C
3. Freeman 1B
4. T. Hernandez RF
5. Rojas SS
6. Pages CF
7. Taylor 2B
8. Vargas LF
9. E. Hernandez 3B
James Paxton SP
The New York Yankees are calling up top infield prospect Jorbit Vivas to make his major league debut, per Andy Martino of SNY. Vivas, 23, was traded to the Yankees from the Los Angeles Dodgers this past offseason. Vivas was sent with left-handed pitcher Victor Gonzalez for shortstop prospect Trey Sweeney.
I hope the Dodgers trade for Randy Arozarena of the Tampa Bay Rays, The Rays are going nowhere this year.
Arozarena is under contract through the 2026 season. Playing a corner outfield spot, the 29-year-old boasts a 155 wRC+ since June 1, showing more of what has made him one of the premiere right-handed bats in baseball.
I like his postseason experience and energy he will bring to the Dodgers.
Trade proposal: Kopp, Ramos, Cartaya to the Rays for Arozarena.
Fair deal IMHO.
Go Dodgers!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
The Rays would do that… maybe.
Do that one and send Lux, Outman, and Vargas to the Cubs for Bellinger.
Then, the blockbuster: Rushing, Lipcuis, Pages, and DePaula for Bo Bichette.
Here’s the lineup, when healthy:
1, Ohtani DH
2. Betts 2B
3. Freeman 1B
4. T. Hernandez RF
5. Muncy LF
6. Smith C
7. Bellinger CF
8. Arozerena LF
9. Bichette SS
Utility: Barnes, Taylor, Kike, Heyward, Rojas
Way too much for Bichette IMHO.
No way I would include dePaula in that kind of deal. If he is included in any deal it has to be for a true difference maker.
Go Dodgers!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Yes, way too much for Bichette.
Both Rushing and DePaula??? The Blue Jays would love it!
Except for sentimental reasons, I really don’t understand the appeal of Bellinger at this point.
He’s a far cry from being Belli, the MVP. His “bounce-back” season in ’23 was good, not great. And right now he’s now hitting to a .741 and is on pace to finish the season with about 18 HRs. Pages, as a rookie, is on a pace just a bit below Belli’s –and in ’23 Outman his to a .790 OPS with 23 HRs.
Plus, Belli is grossly overpaid for what he is producing.
With Kiermeier waived, perhaps the Jays would have some interest in Outman.
So let’s add Outman to Bichette package…, and save De Paula for the Robert deal.
like it!
Mark, you can only have 13 position players,one of the bench players has to go.
I ‘m talking about September when you can add one. 😉
Alert: Mark, it looks to me like Bradley has hacked you and is posting under your name.
The Rays would never do that deal for Arozarena. Cartaya has been lousy for two years and after a decent start at OKC is now fading there also. Kopp walks as many guys as he strikes out and Ramos has no trade value. They’re going to want MLB ready players and would probably ask for something like Vargas or Pages and Wrobleski or very possibly even more than that.
Belli has a broken finger. How do you know when he’ll be back or how effective he’ll be? And then he can opt out if he’s good or you have to pay him 30 mil for each of the next two years if he isn’t and sticks around.
And I agree with dodgerram that you’re giving up too much for Bichette. He’s having a bad year, he’s hurt now, and he’s only under control for one more year. No DePaula.
OK. Have at me.
Nothing to have at. It’s all opinion.
All we need is for Cody to be ready by September 15.
AF could offer an extension for 6 or 7 years after the season.
I like it, but Bellinger is going to be out for close to six weeks with a broken finger. He probably won’t be available until mid-August at least. I might add a couple of minor leaguers to the Arozarena deal and get Elfin too.
From Houston Mitchell:
Hi, and welcome to another edition of Dodgers Dugout. My name is Houston Mitchell, and if your pitching arm feels strong, please contact the Dodgers. I mean, Orel Hershiser and Fernando Valenzuela are right there in the booth for rotation help.
People worried about the Dodger rotation this season are crazy. What are they looking at? Just ponder this amazing rotation the Dodgers have:
Clayton Kershaw
Walker Buehler
Tyler Glasnow
Dustin May
Yoshinobu Yamamoto
And they have the following in the bullpen ready to step in:
Tony Gonsolin
Michael Grove
Emmet Sheehan
That rotation matches up with any in baseball so I don’t understand all the worry … wait. I’m being told now that all of those pitchers are on the injured list.
Nevermind!
Yes, in a season where it appeared the Dodgers had too much starting pitching, now they don’t have nearly enough.
Glasnow went on the IL this week with back tightness. Glasnow has never pitched in more than 120 innings in a season, and had pitched 109 this season. (Glasnow apparently being Scottish for “Body made of glass.”) The expectation is he will be back right after the All-Star break, but haven’t we heard similar about other Dodger injuries the last few seasons?
Then, Bobby Miller had another horrible outing, giving up nine runs in four innings against the Phillies on Tuesday. He was sent to the minors on Wednesday to figure things out. He had an 8.07 ERA after seven starts.
“No. 1, we got to get him right, that’s the impetus,” manager Dave Roberts said. “You have a path to either continue to go as we have been, and hope that it turns; or remove him from the situation, option him, and give him a reset to get out of this hotbox of performance. So we just felt this was the best thing for Bobby and for us. He’s a big part of what we’re trying to do this year.”
So, where does that leave the Dodger rotation, if the rumors that they will call up prospect River Ryan (mentioned just two weeks ago in this newsletter) to replace him?
James Paxton (172 career starts, 973 innings)
Gavin Stone (21, 123)
Landon Knack (7, 34.2)
Justin Wrobleski (1, 7)
River Ryan (0, 0)
That’s not ideal for a team that wants to win the World Series. It is ideal if you are the Oakland A’s.
If all of the pitchers on the IL are healthy, how many of the current rotation would still be starting? Probably none of them, though you could make a case for Paxton and Stone.
One solution is just waiting for all the guys on the IL to get healthy. Glasnow, Kershaw, Buehler, Yamamoto and May could be back this season. The problem with that theory is that you don’t really know if they will come back.
Kershaw makes another rehab start on Saturday, so we’ll know more after that. Glasnow hopefully is back after the All-Star break, but can you count on a guy who has never pitched more than 120 innings in a season to carry you deep into the postseason? Buehler was shut down after his hip injury and a series of poor starts. So, status unknown. Yamamoto strained his rotator cuff. Status unknown, plus he pitched only once a week in Japan, so can you count on him to pitch Games 1, 4 and 7 in the postseason? Or even Games 2 and 6? May could be back in September, but what will he be like coming off his second major elbow surgery in three years?
So, waiting and hoping is a big gamble indeed.
The other possibility is to acquire someone in a trade. But, as of this moment, there are no front-line starters available. Here’s the list of the best that are rumored to be available at the moment (click on their name to be taken to full stats page):
Tyler Anderson, LHP, Angels
8-8, 2.81 ERA
The former Dodger pitched five scoreless inning for L.A. in the 2022 postseason. Removed after five because it’s important to the Dodgers to remove starting pitchers in the postseason when they are doing well.
Chris Bassitt, RHP, Blue Jays
7-7, 3.43 ERA
Garrett Crochet, LHP, White Sox
6-6, 3.08 ERA, 146 strikeouts in 105.1 innings
(Who better than Crochet to knit together the rotation. Sorry, I couldn’t resist.)
Zach Eflin, RHP, Rays
5-5, 4.19 ERA
Nathan Eovaldi, RHP, Rangers
6-3, 3.10 ERA
Eovaldi is 9-3 in 17 postseason games with a 3.05 ERA.
Erick Fedde, RHP, White Sox
6-3, 3.13 ERA
Jack Flaherty, RHP, Tigers
5-5, 3.24 ERA
Has a 3.60 ERA in 25 postseason innings.
Frankie Montas, RHP, Reds
4-6, 4.19 ERA
Montas was once a Dodger prospect until he was part of the package that acquired Rich Hill from Oakland at the 2016 trade deadline.
Max Scherzer of the Rangers was rumored to be available, but Texas has since strung together some wins to climb back in the postseason race, so it appears unlikely. Besides, we saw what happened the first time, and I have no desire to see a reunion tour.
Crochet is best of this group, but you have to ask yourself if you are willing to unload some top prospects for him. He went straight from the 2020 draft to the majors and missed the 2022 season because of Tommy John surgery (which means the Dodgers will really love him). He has pitched 105.1 innings this season after never pitching more than 54 as a pro before. And he is on an innings limit this season, so he wouldn’t be able to start every fifth day. I think it would be a good pickup, but you have to consider all those variables.
What will the Dodgers do? We’ll just have to wait and see. The trade deadline is July 30 at 3 p.m. PDT. It seems likely that Andrew Friedman will make a deal. He always does. But he’s not going to overpay for anyone, so if the White Sox, or any other team, ask for too much, he’ll look elsewhere.
IMHO whatever the Dodgers will do at the deadline hinges on Yamamoto and Glasnsow. If they are convinced both will come back in time for the stretch run and postseason they will turn their attention to getting help in the lineup and bench. Glasnow probably will be back but Yamamoto ? who knows. If both should be done we are toast anyway as far as a WS title is concerned.
Go Dodgers!!!!!!!!!!!!!
like your lineup mark!! call AF and make him do it.!! You can do it!!!! Also Mark, you just put out an everyday lineup, no need to platoon !! Love it!
We need Isaac Paredes and apparently the Rays are at least listening.
Plays all over the infield. Good defensive numbers at third. Solid hitter. Still young with lots of time before free agency.
I have thought all along AF would make a deadline deal with Tampa Bay. I assumed it would be Arozarena and Eflin. Maybe it’s Paredes and Eflin.
We could probably use all three.
All three would definitely help
Here is a lineup that i have by my trades you tell me if tonites lineup they use would be better then the one I have.
Ohtani dh
Pham CF
Freeman 1b
Smith C
Teo Hernandez RF
DeJong 3b
Winker LF
Rojas SS
Taylor 2B
Wow by getting three new guys from whitsox and Nationals not Robert JR or Crochet and Pham and Winker DeJong both just one year contracts but at least my lineup is wa more challenging then the one they used tonite against Tigers and like Bear is worried about money really for three new guys that signed one year contracts. Oh and I got Flarethy and Evoladi Stone Paxton andYarbough as my starters until Glasnow Keeshaw and Buehler come back. And bear an Porqupone think my trades are crazy I just fixed the dodgers with five players until Betts and Muncy Kershaw and Glasgnow come back then get rid of the players we have now that aren’t cutting it.
Bradley, you have absolutely no understanding of how things work in baseball. You might not like it, but a player’s salary a huge concern when trading for superstar players. Now, guys like Pham, Winker, Flaherty, DeJong, are all rentals, and salary would not be a problem. None of those guys would cost much in prospects in return. But you are not getting them for Kike. You’re not getting them if you traded Taylor. I told you contracts would be an issue when you were mentioning guys like Arenado, Ramirez or any other player on a long-term contract. I do not think your trades are crazy, I think they are for the most part, unrealistic. And sorry, but the chances of getting each and every player you mentioned are slim. Here is another hot flash for you, DeJong has played exactly one game at third base in his entire career. He is primarily a SS. He has only played 22 games at second base. I am not worried about money! It isn’t mine, but I know enough about this game that I know how much a player’s contract is for and length of same, is a consideration in any trade for a good player. Guys who have a year or less, not so much. Even Bellinger’s contract would have been something the Dodgers would have to put into the discussion. The reason??? He would be owed the rest of this season’s deal, but he can opt out or exercise his player option the next two years. Those two options total 52 million five hundred thousand dollars. And finally, getting rid of players who are underperforming is not that easy. Perhaps the easiest to dump will be Biggio, and he will likely be the first one gone. Lux, Outman, Pages, and Vargas, have some trade value. Kike and Taylor do not. The other guy’s name is porpoiseboy. Not porqupone. I have no idea what that is.
Looks like Graterol will be the opener for the ACL Dodgers tonight.
Go Dodgers!!
Flipped him with Jose Hernandez. 26 yr old LHP who was originally in the Dodgers system.
Graterol pitched the 2nd inning
1ip
1 H
1k.
0 runs
Goods win for Dodgers tonight against Tigers ace
Kersh pitching for OKC tomorrow night. I am going to watch that.
Eric and Wayne,
I am waiting… but I will not wait forever.
I already replied twice under your original comment. Go there to see it.
But whatever you do makes no difference to me anyway.
See above, Wayne.
I am sorry that I did not understand who your comment was directed to.
I apologize after hearing your explanation.
Misunderstandings ..no worries.
Nice win for the Dodgers tonight ..stopped the skid.
Eric,
You have to quit taking this so personally. I suggested trading Outman… and Vargas as well. It doesn’t mean I hate either player.
Outman can play the outfield while Kike can play anywhere and do it well. He is a perfect scrub.
I did not act like Outman has killed someone in my family.
GEEEEEZZZ!
How about that Austin Barnes guy. He now has a batting average higher than Teoscar and Pages. Wrobleski tomorrow, remember it is a day game. Great Lakes got no-hit tonight.
From the Dodger’s Official Page:
RHP Yoshinobu Yamamoto (right rotator cuff strain)
Expected return: Second half
“Yamamoto’s thrown twice this past week,” Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said on July 12. “He’s played catch out to 60 feet twice, and he’s supposed to play catch [on July 13]. There’s been no soreness, no pain. So he’s in a good spot.”
Yamamoto first reported issues following a career-high 106-pitch start against the Yankees on June 7. The Dodgers gave him two extra days off in the hopes that would resolve things, but he felt something again while facing the Royals on June 15 and ended up exiting after just two innings. An MRI revealed no tear. (Last updated: July 12)
RHP Joe Kelly (right posterior shoulder)
Expected return: After the All-Star break
“Joe Kelly will be back with us after the [All-Star] break,” Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said on July 12.
Kelly made his first rehab appearance for Single-A Rancho Cucamonga on July 2, and he has progressed well over the last 10 days. The veteran reliever is close to seeing his first MLB game action since May 5. (Last updated: July 12)
RHP Brusdar Graterol (right shoulder inflammation)
Expected return: Possibly late July
“Graterol’s making his way,” Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said on July 12. “We can see him end of July as a possibility — which is encouraging. He’ll probably go out to a [Minor League] affiliate after the [All-Star] break. Then you take three or four [outings], and we should see him at that point.”
Graterol has not pitched since last October’s NLDS against the D-backs; his shoulder issue developed prior to Spring Training. (Last updated: July 12)
really nice win last night. I’m going all “Bradley “. this morning. tthe dodgers should go get Gunnar Henderson to play ss. Mike Trout for left field. Gerrit Cole from the Yankees. Jose Ramirez to play 3rd. Mason Miller to close. That’s about it . …. Now back to earth! after seeing the Detroit left handed stud pitch a couple of times , i would go hard after him , not the White sox pitcher. it would take a lot , but he’s special! Rumor has it he could be dealt, so get in line Dodgers! …. Paredes. would be a fantastic addition for the dodgers! Do it!
In my humble opinion after watching Lux for a little more than a half season, he should be optioned to the minors to play every day and get his hitting fixed if possible. Right now his bat in the lineup is a detriment. I realize all about last year’s injuries,but he isn’t helping the team offensively.Platooning him here isn’t helping either.
Lux has two options remaining.
Saturday schedule
4:05 p.m. PT: Great Lakes (Jose Rodriguez) vs. Fort Wayne (Dylan Lesko)
5 p.m.: Tulsa (Kendall Williams) vs. Corpus Christi (Miguel Ullola)
5:05 p.m.: Oklahoma City (Clayton Kershaw) vs. El Paso (Jackson Wolf)
7:05 p.m.: Rancho Cucamonga (TBA) at Stockton (Steven Echavarria)
actually taylor is much better offensively than kiki, lux, heyward, biggio. surely at least 2 of the above won’t be there after the deadline! WE ALL wanted CT gone. Right now he’s been valuable! Why is biggio still taking up a spot on the roster? He doesn’t play on average once every 7-8 days, a wasted spot. try lipcius or someone who might actually contribute! … i assume today is a Barnsie day. He’s been a little better lately, so go Barnes! ……. if the dodgers can sweep this series, it would be a big momentum boost going into the all star break. Phillies lost to the athletics last night! that doesn’t make me fill all warm and fuzzy after getting swept! ….. Feels like something big about to happen in Dodger world!