Los Angeles Dodgers bench coach Danny Lehmann pointed out the problems he’s seen within the Dodgers’ pitching as of late, when they’ve surrendered several huge innings to opposing teams.
The Dodgers have a stellar defensive record over the season so far, allowing the fewest runs in MLB, but have allowed their opponents to score five or more runs in an inning four times in their last seven games.
The Los Angeles Angels did so in their series finale at Dodger Stadium last Sunday, the Pittsburgh Pirates did so in their only win against LA during a three-game series and the Chicago White Sox did so twice in their three-game set against the Dodgers.
“I think, out of the bullpen specifically, I think maybe some strike-throwing, a few more walks that we’re not used to over the last six weeks or so, because they’ve been really, really good,” Lehmann said. “We’ve gotten bit by the long ball, obviously in Pittsburgh and here tonight. But overall, it’s more the strike throwing and just (not) getting ahead of guys and doing what they’re supposed to do.”
Since June 7, the final game of their series against the Angels, the Dodgers have surrendered 14 home runs—tied for fifth most in MLB during that stretch. Six of those homers came from their relievers, and half of those six came off of Jack Dreyer.
Dreyer allowed two homers in Sunday’s loss to the White Sox, and has allowed five since his return from the injured list.
Has the Dodgers’ Bullpen Been Good This Season?
While they’ve shown some cracks over the last week, the Dodgers’ bullpen has also shown they’re among the best in the game when everyone’s at the top of their game.
They have a 3.87 ERA, which sits towards the middle of the pack compared to the rest of MLB. They looked their best during May, when they set a franchise record for consecutive scoreless innings pitched.
The previous franchise record was 33 innings in 1988, and this year’s relief core lasted 38 innings without allowing a run from May 12-25.
LA is still without some of its most important relievers, such as Brock Stewart and Edwin Diaz, and are sure to only get better when they return from the injured list.
Are you confident in the Dodgers’ bullpen despite their recent hardships?
One Response
I don’t like our bullpen. Too many flubbed games. Treinen, Scott, Dreyer, etc. With a team like the dodgers we should have a better bullpen.