James Paxton Confident He Will Start Season in Dodgers Rotation
The Dodgers front office has made plenty of additions to the team this offseason, with a few falling under the radar. The roster is full of star power, but to win a World Series, strong role players are needed.
One of the signings that has gone slightly under the radar is of veteran left-hander James Paxton. Paxton joins the starting rotation that has been given a complete makeover this winter and is projected to slot into the back end of everything.
Paxton is coming off a 2023 season where he posted an ERA of 4.50 in 19 starts. He was sidelined for all of the 2022 season while rehabbing from Tommy John surgery.
The veteran pitcher said that he has “no doubt” about his ability to be ready to start the season in the rotation. He gives the team a left-handed option in a very righty-dominant staff.
Paxton has a five-pitch mix that includes a strong four-seam fastball. He used it 55.9 percent of the time during the 2023 season, and fans should expect to see it often again this year.
With him being a 10-year veteran who has dealt with injury issues previously, the Dodgers likely won’t push him too much. But Paxton confirmed that he is feeling good, and all his physical tests are coming back strong.
“I’m an older player now, and I’m not perfect anymore. My body’s not perfect. So there’s things that have kind of built up over the years. But I’m feeling really good right now. All the physical tests are really good. I’m feeling strong and ready.”
This will be his first time pitching with a National League squad, and he holds an ERA of 4.85 at Dodger Stadium. The front office believes Paxton can provide tremendous depth to their pitching staff this season, and the goal is for him to be someone who can eat innings.
Photo Credit: Allan Henry-USA TODAY Sports
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