As the National League Championship Series (NLCS) approaches, both the Milwaukee Brewers and Los Angeles Dodgers have made significant changes to their bullpens. The first game of the NLCS is scheduled for Monday in Milwaukee.
Brewers Adjust Their Bullpen
The Milwaukee Brewers have opted to exclude right-hander Nick Mears from their roster. Mears had a solid regular season, appearing 63 times in relief with a 5-3 record and a 3.49 ERA. He pitched 1 2/3 scoreless innings during the NL Division Series (NLDS).
- Nick Mears: 5-3, 3.49 ERA, 63 appearances
- Tobias Myers: Replaces Mears, appeared in 22 games with a 3.55 ERA
Tobias Myers, who was not previously part of the NLDS roster, has been included for the NLCS. Last season, he recorded a strong performance, going 9-6 with a 3.00 ERA in 25 starts. In the Wild Card Series against the New York Mets, he pitched five shutout innings.
Additionally, the Brewers will continue to be without two-time All-Star Brandon Woodruff, who is recovering from a right lat strain.
Dodgers Revamp Their Pitching Staff
The Los Angeles Dodgers have also made strategic changes to their bullpen ahead of the NLCS. They have added right-hander Ben Casparius, who replaces Dalton Rushing, one of three catchers on the NLDS roster. Rushing had a brief appearance in the NLDS, striking out in his only at-bat.
- Ben Casparius: 7-5, 4.64 ERA in 46 appearances this season
- Justin Wrobleski: Added for the NLCS following Tanner Scott’s removal due to injury
Casparius was instrumental during last season’s postseason, delivering a 1.42 ERA over 6 1/3 innings. His experience will be vital for the Dodgers as they aim for another World Series title.
The adjustments both teams have made reflect their strategies for the critical NLCS. With the strong pitching capabilities of both clubs, fans can expect an exciting series ahead.
