The Los Angeles Dodgers are encountering persistent challenges with their pitching staff as another crucial player heads to the Injured List (IL) just before the postseason. The latest setback involves reliever Kirby Yates, who is sidelined with a hamstring injury that will keep him out until at least the playoffs.
This news comes at a critical time as the Dodgers are on the brink of clinching the NL West with a magic number of just three. Unfortunately, the team’s pitching staff has been plagued with health problems throughout the season, and Yates’ absence adds to these troubles. Yates has struggled with multiple hamstring injuries this season, leading to several IL stints. Despite signing an extension in the offseason, he hasn’t been able to perform at his best, posting a 5.23 ERA over 41.1 innings with a WHIP slightly above 1.330.
In response to Yates’ injury, the Dodgers plan to bring back Roki Sasaki from the IL, marking his first return in several months. Sasaki’s recovery is timely, as the Dodgers’ bullpen has been under scrutiny for its inconsistent performance. The team’s ability to find some stability and effectiveness in the pitching staff will be crucial for their success in the upcoming MLB playoffs.
As the Dodgers navigate the final stretch of the regular season, they will need to rely on their depth and hope for a speedy return to form for their pitching staff to make a significant postseason run.