Dodgers Postseason News: Ross Stripling To Be on NLDS Playoff Roster

In what comes as somewhat of a surprise, Dodgers right-hander Ross Stripling will be making the postseason roster, according to Alanna Rizzo of Sports Net LA.

.@RossStripling is on #Dodgers post season roster.

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— AlaNNa Rizzo (@alannarizzo) September 17, 2019

Stripling, 29, has tossed 84 2/3 innings to the tune of a 3.40 ERA and 3.71 FIP. He has been utilized as something of a combo pitcher — both a starter and reliever — and has succeeded in that role. As a starter, he has posted a 3.36 ERA this season and as a reliever, he has posted a 3.57 ERA.

This development likely takes one of Dustin May or Caleb Ferguson entirely out of the running for a playoff spot unless the Dodgers decide to carry thirteen pitchers and twelve position players instead of it being in reverse. This is a big announcement for the outlook of the postseason roster.

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts spoke to the media prior to Tuesday’s matchup with the Rays and shed some light on the situation. He stated that Stripling will not be on the postseason roster as a starter, but will throw bulk innings in the playoffs. That is the role in which Stripling thrives.

Roberts ruled out Stripling as a postseason starter, said he will pitch out of the bullpen, which is why he was scratched from tonight’s start and will instead pitch the bulk of innings after opener Caleb Ferguson.

— Ken Gurnick (@kengurnick) September 17, 2019

We will see how the rest of the roster shakes out in a couple weeks with October quickly approaching. Stripling has seen playoff experience with the Dodgers already and he could be counted on to throw innings of meaning.