The Los Angeles Dodgers won their third consecutive game with an 11-3 victory over the New York Yankees on Saturday. The offense provided more than enough run support for Gavin Stone, who turned in another solid start.
The right-hander gave up just two runs and collected six strikeouts in 5.2 innings of work. He dealt with some traffic on the base paths due to some poor luck on batted balls, but largely was able to keep the Yankees in check.
Stone said he was focused on limiting the damage when pitching with runners on base, via Juan Toribio of MLB.com:
“Especially with our offense, one run is nothing compared to what these guys can do,” Stone said. “Just limiting the damage and giving these guys a chance to come back and put up some more runs on the board.”
Stone has shown a knack for being able to pitch out of jams this year, which is a skill that has helped him break out after having a tendency to let things spiral in his first taste of Major League action.
The right-hander struggled in his first big league season, but now Stone has been a bright spot for the Dodgers. Through 12 starts, he owns a 7-2 record, 2.93 ERA, 3.46 FIP and 1.24 WHIP in 67.2 innings pitched.
L.A. improved to 9-3 in games started by Stone this season. The 25-year-old has allowed two runs or fewer in nine of his 12 appearances.
Gavin Stone pitching with confidence & maturity
After throwing five scoreless innings in a recent start against the Colorado Rockies, Austin Barnes noted that Stone is pitching with more composure on the mound this season. “I see the confidence level in executing pitches,” Barnes said.
“He’s not afraid to get beat in the zone right now. He trusts his stuff and he’s got a good mix right now. His sinker is really good, his slider has come a long way and he’s still got that really good wipeout changeup. He’s in a really good spot.”
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