The Los Angeles Dodgers starting rotation has been depleted as of late, which has required the team’s bullpen to carry a heavier load than anyone could have planned for.
One of the organization’s pitching prospects, left-hander Caleb Ferguson, was called up to make his MLB debut on Wednesday against the Pittsburgh Pirates. He struggled with his command, lasting just 1.2 innings in the 11-9 loss at PNC Park.
Ferguson gave up two hits and four runs, striking out three while also issuing three walks on 57 pitches, 40 of which came in the second inning.
Because Ferguson did not go deep into the game, the Dodgers bullpen had to again eat up more innings than would be desired, and it seems it finally caught up to them as they gave up seven runs while walking seven hitters.
There also was a casualty in the bullpen, with Tony Cingrani leaving with an injury after only facing one hitter. According to Andy McCullough of the L.A. Times, Cingrani is being evaluated for a shoulder injury:
Tony Cingrani is being evaluated after complaining of shoulder discomfort. “He felt some sort of sharp pain,” Dave Roberts said.
— Andy McCullough (@McCulloughTimes) June 7, 2018
This is not the first arm issue that Cingrani has dealt with this season as he spent time on the disabled list earlier in the year with what he described as ‘dead arm.’
Cingrani has only pitched on back-to-back days twice since returning from the injury, but the mileage still seemed to have built up with him likely headed for another DL stint.
Pedro Baez was optioned to Triple-A Oklahoma City before Wednesday’s game to make room on the active roster for Ferguson, but there is a good chance he is back with the club on Thursday if Cingrani goes on the DL.
As part of our efforts to help you understand how we handle the personal information you share with us, and in preparation for the new European General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), we’ve updated our Privacy & Cookies Policy. The updated Privacy & Cookies Policy will take effect on May 22, 2018. By using our services on or after that date, you’ll be agreeing to our updated Privacy & Cookies Policy. We recommend that you read our updated Privacy & Cookies Policy in full.
