Los Angeles Dodgers starter Tarik Skubal moved to the bereavement list on Sunday, and will be there for a “couple of days,” per Dave Roberts.
In corresponding moves, the Dodgers optioned Seth Halvorsen and recalled Emmet Sheehan and Kyle Hurt.
Skubal last pitched for the Dodgers on Saturday, and had a frustrating outing—his worst since donning a Dodgers uniform. He lasted just five innings, allowing four earned runs on eight hits while recording a season-low three strikeouts.
What Does Tarik Skubal’s Absence Mean?
The left-hander’s presence on the bereavement list doesn’t impact the rest of the Dodgers’ season, as he will likely be ready for his next turn through the rotation if he stays out for a couple of days as Roberts said.
That should be a huge relief for the Dodgers, who have quite a few injuries among their starters as the postseason nears. Shohei Ohtani, Roki Sasaki and Eric Lauer are all on the IL, leaving LA with limited options.
An injury or extended period of absence for any of their remaining starters would throw a wrench in their plans for the postseason.
Additionally, Skubal’s track record since joining the team is fantastic—serving as one of their best starters since the beginning of August. He has a 2.95 ERA through nine starts, striking out 60 batters through 55 innings pitched.
What Roles Will Kyle Hurt and Emmet Sheehan Play?
Hurt and Sheehan are likely to jump straight into the action, as the Dodgers are running a bullpen game on Sunday.
Jack Dreyer is getting the start, but using Hurt and Sheehan—both of whom have experience handling bulk innings—afterwards is the Dodgers’ most likely move.
The duo have bounced between Triple-A and MLB over the past few weeks, but could very well find a spot on the team if they perform well Sunday. Sheehan is in the midst of a fantastic run of form, and has capitalized on both of his MLB opportunities in Setpember.
He only allowed one earned run through 11.2 innings pitched over his last two starts, and is a real candidate to make the postseason roster despite his recent stays in the minors.
Before that, though, he’ll have to perform in Sunday’s game against the Giants, which begins at 1:10 p.m. PT.
One Response
I could be wrong but isn’t it convenient that he pitched yesterday and wouldn’t pitch again anyway for 6 days? They don’t have to say ehat the issue is,and even Roberts said he’s ok.
Now with a bullpen game scheduled they get to bring up another reliever to replace him.The Dodgers are masters at roster manipulation.