Dodgers Update: Pitching Changes, New Acquisitions, and Critical Game Moments
Yamamoto's Rest, Biggio's Debut, Buehler's Struggles, and Pages' Costly Error Highlight a Pivotal Week.
The Dodgers have had a busy week with notable events, roster changes, and critical game moments. Here’s a roundup of the latest developments.
Yamamoto's Next Start Postponed
Yoshinobu Yamamoto, initially slated to start on Thursday against the Texas Rangers, will pitch on Saturday against the Kansas City Royals. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts announced this change on Wednesday, explaining that the decision was made to give Yamamoto an extra day of rest following his stellar performance against the New York Yankees. In that outing, Yamamoto delivered seven shutout innings, allowing just two hits and two walks while striking out seven, marking the best start of his MLB career to date.
With this adjustment, the Dodgers’ pitching rotation for the weekend series against the Royals is as follows:
Friday: Gavin Stone
Saturday: Yoshinobu Yamamoto
Sunday: Tyler Glasnow
This new schedule also means that Thursday will be a bullpen game for the series finale against the Rangers.
Dodgers Acquired Cavan Biggio
The Dodgers have added a new piece to their infield by acquiring Cavan Biggio. Biggio debuted at third base on Wednesday, going 1-for-3 with a single. This acquisition will bolster the Dodgers' infield depth and provide manager Dave Roberts with another versatile option. Biggio’s performance will be closely watched as he adjusts and integrates into the team’s lineup. His ability to contribute offensively and defensively could prove invaluable as the season progresses.
Walker Buehler's Struggles Continue
Walker Buehler’s season of inconsistency he was continued with another rough outing on Wednesday against the Rangers. Buehler pitched five innings, allowing seven hits, two earned runs, and a home run while striking out just two batters. This latest performance has elevated his ERA to 4.64, reflecting his struggles to find consistent form this season. The Dodgers need Buehler to rediscover his ace-like performances as they aim for a deep playoff run.
Andy Pages' Base Running Mistake
Rookie Andy Pages made a critical base running error in Wednesday's game against the Rangers, potentially costing the Dodgers a chance at a comeback. During a critical moment, Jason Heyward doubled to center, scoring Will Smith. However, Pages ran through the stop sign given by third-base coach Dino Ebel and was tagged out at the plate by catcher Jonah Heim. Heim received second baseman Marcus Semien’s relay throw from center fielder Leody Taveras and tagged Pages on the left side. A video review upheld the call of plate umpire Marvin Hudson, confirming the mistake.
This error underscores the learning curve that Pages, like many rookies, faces as he adjusts to the major leagues. Despite showing promise, these moments of inexperience highlight areas for improvement.
These updates encapsulate a week of highs and lows for the Dodgers. From strategic pitching decisions and new acquisitions to the ongoing challenges faced by key players, the team continues to navigate a complex and demanding season. The coming weeks will be crucial as the Dodgers seek to solidify their playoff aspirations and build on their recent performances.