Dodgers’ Fifth Spot in Rotation Might End Up Going to Gavin Stone

Coming into spring training, the Los Angeles Dodgers thought Emmet Sheehan would be their fifth starter. As Sheehan has dealt with some shoulder soreness and being shut down for a week, Gavin Stone has emerged as the new frontrunner.

Through three games this spring, Stone is 2-0 in two starts with four strikeouts in 5.2 innings. After a scoreless three-inning effort on Sunday, manager Dave Roberts said the following about Stone.

“He’s having a good spring. He’s been consistent with his strike-throwing, his command. He’s been efficient. He’s doing his part. But there’s still a long way to go.”

— Dave Roberts via O.C. Register

There is, in fact, a long way to go. The Dodgers only need two starting pitchers for their regular-season opener against the San Diego Padres in Seoul on March 20, and the rematch the following day. Roberts has said he doesn’t intend to etch a full starting rotation in stone in the meantime.

For his part, Stone is gaining more confidence and more experience with each inning he throws in the Cactus League. He said his “head space and command” are both improved this spring after posting a 9.00 ERA over 31 innings as a rookie last year.

He’s looking to flip the script from his rookie season. In his major league debut against the Tampa Bay Rays last year, he allowed seven runs on 10 hits and was sent back to Triple-A Oklahoma City the following day.

In his first start this spring, Stone’s fastball touched 96 on the radar gun, up a couple of ticks from last year. He also showed off his nasty changeup to strike out San Diego leadoff batter Fernando Tatis Jr.

He’s here to compete even if it means with his teammates.

“I feel like we’re all competing against each other. But at the same time, we all root for each other and pull for each other. So there’s definitely competition. But throw up zeros and put yourself in a good spot.”

— Gavin Stone via MLB.com

Stone knows that the fifth spot is only open for a minimal amount of time with Walker Buehler expected to return in April or May but he’s willing to fight for whatever big league time he can get.

“It’s hard to bet against him. You give him something that he can get better at, he’s going to dominate that.”

— Dave Roberts via MLB.com

Photo Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

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