Although Bobby Miller figured to make his MLB debut at some point during the 2023 season, the moment came much sooner than expected due to the Los Angeles Dodgers dealing with a rash of injuries in their starting rotation.
It quickly became apparent why Miller was a top Dodgers prospect, but there have also been times where the right-hander experienced growing pains that come with any young pitcher. Heading into Saturday’s start against the Washington Nationals, Miller has completed at least six innings in his last five outings.
Included in that was completing a career-high seven innings while holding the Atlanta Braves to just one run.
“Just execution. It’s what it all comes down to. Trying to get guys out on four pitches, and if I don’t, get them out the next pitch by making a really good pitch,” answered Miller when asked what has been key to pitching deeper into starts.
“Sometimes I don’t, but that’s usually the goal, to not have super long at-bats and walk a ton of guys.”
Another key for the 24-year-old has been continued growth and maturation with controlling his emotions when on the mound.
“Just not get too high when things are going good. Just try to hold my energy and stay composed out there. Don’t get too high, don’t get too low,” Miller said.
Also proving key for Miller is development of his pitches, and in particular the changeup.
“It’s huge. I can’t only throw it to lefties. I’ve got to throw it to righties to keep them off my fastball too,” he said. “I’ve just got to get that slider back. It hasn’t been too great lately. But I know the curveball will be there whenever I need it.”
Bobby Miller earning more
Although the Dodgers are remaining mindful of Miller’s workload heading into the postseason, there also has been a willingness to leave him in rather than cut a start short.
“I think a lot of times it’s player-dictated. If you go out there and throw the baseball well, get some swing and misses, and your stuff holds, it makes sense to give a guy more leash,” manager Dave Roberts explained.
“And if it doesn’t look that way, you can argue someone might be a better option. But the way he’s throwing the baseball, it’s hard to see too many guys in any particular time that are a better option than him.”
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