The Los Angeles Dodgers have been without Noah Syndergaard since June 8, when he was placed on the 15-day injured list due to a blister on his right index finger.
After multiple weeks of little activity that was seen, Syndergaard recently threw three innings in a simulated game at Dodger Stadium but isn’t close to returning to the team. “It’s sort of checking a box in the sense that he got to face some hitters, did some up-downs,” Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said.
“I don’t know the next steps, but for me, just where he’s at, we’re still a ways away. I know that’s a vague statement, but that’s just kind of where we’re at.”
Prior to landing on the IL, Syndergaard went 1-4 with a 7.16 ERA and 1.45 WHIP through 12 starts this season. In addition to his blister, Syndergaard was plagued by not being able to make adjustments between outings.
Roberts is hopeful the time off will allow Syndergaard to work on his mechanics. “I think it gives us the best chance since he’s not mired in playing and performance, and trying to then layer that part into mechanics,” Roberts said.
“So when you take that off the table, you can focus on just the mechanics part of it. This is a process that he’s doing the best he can. Like I said, we’re still a ways away.”
Roberts also believes the IL stint has also afforded Syndergaard a needed mental break. “I think the mental reset has taken place,” Roberts began. “I think to get out of — I use the term hot box — so to be out of that, I think the reset on that part of it has been great.
“Now the other part, which is just as important, is the stuff and performance, that we’re still trying to work on.”
Dave Roberts: Noah Syndergaard resetting mentally has been ‘beneficial’
Syndergaard was disheartened by his recent struggles and went as far as deeming himself the “weakest link” on the Dodgers. Roberts believes the 30-year-old being able to take a mental breather is much needed.
“I just think for Noah, to try different things and still come up with the same results, feel like you’re letting teammates down, that takes a toll,” Roberts said. “I think for him to get out of that expectation mode has been beneficial.”
Have you subscribed to the Dodger Blue YouTube channel? Be sure to ring the notification bell to watch player interviews, participate in shows and giveaways, and stay up to date on all Dodgers news and rumors!
