The 2018 season has been a difficult one so far for Los Angeles Dodgers starter Alex Wood. He did not get much run support at the beginning of the year, and then he has battled through injury over the last month that has caused him to be ineffective.
After his last start against the Atlanta Braves in which he gave up nine hits and four runs (two earned) in 4.2 innings, Wood admitted that his recent stretch has been the toughest of his career.
Wood bounced back in a big way on Saturday against the San Francisco Giants, giving up four hits and one run while walking and striking out two in 5.2 innings in the Dodgers 3-1 victory.
It was a start that was much-needed for Wood, who said that he is starting to get his confidence back, via Mike DiGiovanna of the L.A. Times:
“It feels really good when you start executing,” Wood said. “I felt really confident. I think I’m trending in the right direction. Tonight was a big step for me. It’s nice when you win and also when you contribute to the win.”
Even when he hasn’t pitched well, Wood has been big for the Dodgers this season as he is the only member of the Opening Day rotation that has not spent time on the disabled list yet.
In 14 starts this season, Wood holds a record of 2-5 to go along with a 4.22 ERA and 1.18 WHIP while striking out 68 and walking 15 in 74.2 innings, which leads the team.
His strong outing on Saturday came after receiving an extra day of rest, so that could be something the Dodgers look to do more often if they are able to maneuver their rotation to accommodate the left-hander and keep him fresh.
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