Dodgers News: Craig Kimbrel Has to ‘Be Better’ to Earn a Roster Spot

The level of fear Craig Kimbrel brings to Dodgers fans has been an unwelcome sign all season long. Kimbrel has obviously struggled, blowing five saves with a 6-7 record, and has not looked up to par even in most of his wins. 

This has become an issue for much longer than needed as the Dodgers are nearing the postseason. Kimbrel’s Disney magic is no longer in effect so it now weighs down on Dave Roberts to show how much trust he has in Kimbrel.

Despite Kimbrel being open to a different role when it comes to the postseason, it’s hard to imagine him coming out of his shell this late in the season. Roberts spoke to the media before Sunday’s loss acknowledging that Kimbrel needs to earn his roster spot. 

“Craig’s just gotta be better. I can put him in the best positions… To his credit, he’s been more open to pitching in a different role. But you just can’t walk guys and you’ve gotta get them out. And he knows that… We’re going to have some decisions to make. And certainly, guys that show that they can get left and right out … that’s certainly a factor.”

To see Kimbrel out on the mound in a crucial postseason moment is not a sight many Dodgers fans wish to see. The pressure becomes more pronounced for Roberts knowing that if he were to deploy Kimbrel, knowing all the negatives he’s dealt with all season long, it would fall on him whatever downfall Kimbrel causes.