In addition to being without several starters due to injury, the Los Angeles Dodgers currently are missing a few relievers as well. Among them are Scott Alexander and Garrett Cleavinger, who have been out for various lengths of time.
Alexander was placed on the 10-day injured list in July due to left shoulder inflammation, which marked his second stint this season. He initially was expected to only miss a short period, but being shut down from throwing caused a delay in returning.
As for Cleavinger, he was placed on the 10-day IL earlier this month with a right oblique strain. He also was previously was sidelined this year, though due to left elbow inflammation.
“I think both guys are a ways away. They’re in Arizona,” Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said of the two relievers.
Prior to landing on the IL, Alexander had pitched to an 0-2 record and 2.93 ERA in 18 games this season. Cleavinger went 2-4 with a 3.00 ERA and 1.78 WHIP in 22 games, which included one start as an opener.
With the pair of southpaws unavailable, the Dodgers’ only left-handed options out of the bullpen are Justin Bruihl, Victor Gonzalez and Alex Vesia.
Bruihl was the corresponding move to Cleavinger being placed on the IL, and he has found success so far to the tune of a 2.45 ERA in seven appearances.
Gonzalez, who emerged as a significant contributor for the Dodgers last season, recently returned from the IL himself and has put up a 3.57 ERA in 44 games this year.
Vesia, acquired from the Miami Marlins just prior to the start of Spring Training, has been effective as well, posting a 2.57 ERA in 26 appearances.
Urias, Kelly & Betts on track for Padres series
In other injury news, the Dodgers may be getting several reinforcements for their series with the San Diego Padres at Petco Park.
Julio Urias, Joe Kelly and Mookie Betts all could return at some point during the three-game set, which would be a welcome boost to a team entering the final stretch of the season.
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