While the Los Angeles Dodgers opted to carry an extra pitcher for the National League Division Series, there were still a number of notable arms left off the roster. Among those to miss the cut was 2018 All-Star Ross Stripling.
The right-hander couldn’t replicate his success from the first half and made just six appearances in the latter two months of the regular season, battling respective toe and back injuries that required separate stints on the disabled list.
Stripling particularly struggled in September, managing to log only a combined 11.2 innings over the final four starts of his 2018 campaign. To stay fresh, the 28-year-old was one of three pitchers to participate in a simulated game on Sunday.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts revealed afterward that Stripling is in the running for a spot on the club’s NL Championship Series roster, via Bill Plunkett of the Southern California News Group:
The Dodgers had a simulated game Sunday afternoon for pitchers Ross Stripling, Julio Urias and Josh Fields who threw to Chase Utley, Austin Barnes and Kyle Farmer. Roberts said Stripling, in particular, was “in play” for a potential NL Championship Series roster.
Robertscalled leaving Stripling off the NLDS roster his toughest decision, so it’s no surprise that he may circle back and try to find a spot for the swingman in the next round.
With the NLCS being a seven-game matchup, Stripling’s potential inclusion makes more sense considering the length he offers out of the bullpen. With experience as both a reliever and starter, he can provide multiple innings in an outing whenever necessary.
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