The Los Angeles Dodgers have two days and multiple workouts before needing to finalize their roster for the National League Division Series. Manager Dave Roberts intimated several of the pieces are in place, with the final spots somewhat dependent on the Dodgers’ opponent.
Speedster Tim Locastro, who was called up last week, remains “in the conversation” for a spot on the Dodgers’ NLDS roster, Roberts said. Locastro surprisingly joined the club at Coors Field, and his arrival was explained as the Dodgers being open to having a pinch-runner on their playoff roster.
“When you’re looking at potential close ballgames, to be able to use him in various situations to help you steal a base or create some tension for an opposing pitcher, I think that holds a lot of value,” Roberts said Tuesday.
Locastro is the only player the team is still “gathering” information on. As such, he’s going to be put in simulated games to mimic situations that may arise during the playoffs. “I trust him as a baserunner and base stealer,” Roberts said.
Roberts intimated Locastro is essentially competing against a potential eighth relief pitcher. He did not mention whether or not the Dodgers were still considering carrying Kyle Farmer as a third catcher.
Although the league saw a record number of home runs hit this season, Roberts believes the postseason presents a different set of circumstances. “I think the home run, with the quality of pitching in the postseason, is curtailed,” he said.
“Games are played a little closer. A guy who can pinch-run probably makes more sense in a shorter series. You could argue you don’t need eight guys in a ‘pen with the off days and short series.”
Locastro would be the Dodgers’ first dedicated pinch-runner to make a playoff roster since Dee Gordon in 2013. Locastro was successful on 34 of 41 base stealing attempts in the Minors this season. He stole one base in three games with the Dodgers.
