The Los Angeles Dodgers pitching staff has benefitted from a complete effort from their primary options and depth amid a multitude of injuries, but with the starting rotation getting a bit healthier, the bullpen still has a few injured relievers.
Along with Brusdar Graterol on the injured list, Joe Kelly and Ryan Brasier are still large question marks in when they’ll help out the bullpen.
Kelly has been out since May 5, last pitching against the Atlanta Braves at Dodger Stadium. The veteran right-hander has pitched to a 4.73 ERA and 2.62 FIP with a .271 batting average allowed.
Brasier has been a bit more limited, last appearing against the Toronto Blue Jays in late April. He’s been a bit unlucky, tallying a 4.63 ERA, 5.19 FIP with a .227 batting average allowed.
Both of them are unfortunately expected to be out for a longer period with their own individual ramp-up periods, per Mike DiGiovanna of the L.A. Times:
Relievers Ryan Brasier, out since April 29 because of a right calf strain, and Joe Kelly, out since May 6 because of a shoulder strain, are weeks away from returning. Brasier has kept his arm activated and Kelly is playing catch at 90 feet.
The Dodgers bullpen has totaled a 3.16 ERA, 1.09 WHIP with a .209 batting average allowed. They’re also seventh in bullpen innings, which is a huge step back from where they were early on in the year.
Receiving deep outings from starting pitching is what has helped the relief core, and more options on that front will continue to help the group.
Other Dodgers injury updates
Evan Phillips was activated on Friday prior to their game with the Colorado Rockies, providing the Dodgers with a huge boost to the backend of their ‘pen.
Right-hander Bobby Miller is progressing to a point where his rehab assignment on Saturday could be his last before rejoining the team. He’s expected to throw around four innings, and the front office will make their decision on when he could be headed to join the big club.
Since Muncy was placed on the IL, the Dodgers have started Kiké Hernández, Chris Taylor and Miguel Rojas at third base. However, Muncy is still a ways away, as his oblique strain is hindering the Dodgers slugger.
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