The Los Angeles Dodgers are managing their pitching strategies carefully as they compete in the National League Division Series. Manager Dave Roberts faced a critical decision in Game 2 when choosing his closer. The game saw the Dodgers entering the ninth inning with a three-run lead, yet Roberts opted for veteran Blake Treinen over rookie Roki Sasaki for the save opportunity.
Roki Sasaki has quickly emerged as a dominant relief pitcher since moving to the bullpen after recovering from a shoulder injury. At only 23 years old, Sasaki has posted four consecutive scoreless appearances, showcasing his 100-mph fastball and effective splitter. However, due to concerns about his workload, Roberts chose to let Treinen, who recently improved after a challenging season, handle the save situation.
Decision to Delay Sasaki’s Usage
Roberts explained his reasoning after the game, noting that Sasaki hadn’t pitched on consecutive days very often and the team wanted to manage his innings responsibly. Nevertheless, Treinen struggled, allowing two runs without securing an out, and Sasaki was ultimately called in to record the final out of the game.
Following this game, Roberts expressed confidence that Sasaki would be the primary choice for future save situations. He acknowledged the importance of slowly introducing Sasaki to the rigors of relief pitching. “He’s not going to close every game, it’s just not feasible,” Roberts reiterated, emphasizing the need for balance as Sasaki adapts to his new role.
Future Plans for Sasaki and Other Relievers
As playoff pressures increase, the Dodgers plan to give Sasaki at least one day of rest between outings. While Roberts remains open to the idea of using Sasaki on back-to-back days, he pointed out that any such decision would involve careful consideration with the pitching coaches regarding Sasaki’s performance during warm-ups.
In addition to Sasaki, the Dodgers are also looking to Emmet Sheehan, who has shown promise as a multi-inning setup pitcher. After a shaky playoff debut against the Reds, Sheehan bounced back in Game 2 of the NLDS, providing solid relief and demonstrating composure against tough hitters.
Challenges for Treinen’s Performance
On the other hand, Treinen’s performance raises concerns. His inability to get batters out has led to questions about his return to form. Despite being a reliable option for the Dodgers in their previous World Series run, Treinen recorded a career-worst 5.40 ERA this season. Roberts noted Treinen’s lack of confidence during the game against the Phillies and indicated uncertainty about his role in high-pressure situations moving forward.
As the playoffs progress, the Dodgers are navigating the complexities of managing young pitchers like Sasaki while attempting to maximize their experienced relievers, ensuring a balanced approach during this critical stretch.
