#dodgers-bullpen

#dodgers-bullpen

The Dodgers ' exploration of Sasaki as a late-inning option is a reflection of the 23-year-old rookie's upside, but this isn't a commentary of Sasaki as much as it is of the roster. The team's bullpen problems have persisted into the final week of the regular season, and the potential solutions sound like miracles, starting with Sasaki's audition for a postseason role as a reliever.

"Jack's been great," Roberts said. "It's hard to quantify baseball aptitude or heartbeat, but because of his intelligence, his calmness, he's been able to handle whatever role, whatever leverage. "He takes the information, understands what he's trying to do every time he's on the mound. And that's shown itself. He's unflappable. Very, very valuable for our ballclub and the 'pen."

Brusdar Graterol has proven to be an invaluable member of the Dodgers bullpen since making his debut in 2020 as a 21-year-old. For parts of five seasons, "Bazooka" has compiled a terrific 2.69 ERA - allowing only 147 hits and nine homers in 181 innings pitched. The movement on his pitches are elite (as is his stuff). Graterol's ability to remain calm under pressure made him a favorite high-leverage selection for the coaching staff during the postseason.

After having his start pushed back due to some back issues, Tyler Glasnow started the game strong by striking out the side in the 1st. The 2nd didn't go as smoothly, as he issued a lead-off walk, which led to a stolen base. A flyball advanced the runner, and a sac fly from Kyle Farmer followed to put the Rockies up 1-0 before Glasnow got his fourth strikeout to end the inning.