Figuring to play a key role out of the bullpen for the Los Angeles Dodgers, Scott Alexander instead endured a 2019 season that was marred by injury. Because of that, he only appeared in 28 games before undergoing nerve decompression surgery.
Alexander struggled through the first month of the season, which Dodgers manager Dave Roberts hoped was merely a byproduct of hamstring trouble compromising his mechanics. Alexander was improved in May but wound up on the 10-day injured list June 11 due to left forearm inflammation.
Although it was considered a relatively minor injury, that wound up marking the beginning of the end of the year. Alexander suffered an unspecified thumb injury as a rehab assignment neared, which delayed his expected return.
It stemmed from a nerve issue in Alexander’s left arm, and as the Dodgers welcomed back players once active rosters expanded in September, Roberts ruled out his relief pitcher returning this year.
Alexander went 3-2 with a 3.63 ERA, 5.07 FIP and 1.39 WHIP with nine strikeouts and seven walks in 17.1 innings. With their lefty specialist unavailable, the Dodgers addressed the void by acquiring Adam Kolarek at the trade deadline.
2019 highlight
Alexander appeared in back-to-back games against the Pittsburgh Pirates on May 24 and 25, and retired all six batters faced over two perfect innings to help the Dodgers to consecutive victories.
2020 outlook
Alexander was among the players eligible for salary arbitration this winter and considering the injury woes he had, was a candidate to be non-tendered. However, Alexander and the Dodgers agreed to a one-year deal before the deadline to tender contracts.
Alexander signed for less than his MLB Trade Rumors projected salary, but his contract is fully guaranteed for the 2020 season. Assuming he can get healthy, the 30-year-old could play a significant role for the Dodgers.
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