The Dodgers' rotation is a powerhouse, but what about the rest of the team? Injuries have plagued some of their key players, leaving question marks on the roster. And with the season fast approaching, the team is looking to fill those gaps and defend their World Series title.
Emmet Sheehan and River Ryan, two talented pitchers, are aiming to bounce back from injury-ridden seasons and secure their spots in the rotation. Sheehan, who underwent Tommy John surgery in 2024, impressed in his 15 appearances last season, posting a 2.82 ERA and a 30.6% strikeout rate. However, his postseason performance was less than stellar, highlighting the need for consistency. Sheehan is now focusing on refining his pitching approach, emphasizing the importance of being locked in from the very first pitch.
Sheehan's slider has become a go-to weapon, with increased usage leading to a higher swinging strike rate. But there's a catch: left-handed batters have been hitting it hard. To counter this, Sheehan may need to rely more on his changeup to gain an advantage early in the count. Additionally, a slight adjustment in his arm angle has resulted in a flatter four-seam fastball, which has proven effective in generating swinging strikes.
Sheehan's spot in the rotation seems secure, but the final spot is still up for grabs. Roki Sasaki, a highly-regarded prospect, is working on developing a third pitch, but it's a work in progress. The Dodgers might opt to send him to the minor leagues to refine his skills.
This opens the door for River Ryan, who has been on the Dodgers' radar since being drafted in 2021. Ryan, a former infielder, quickly made a name for himself as a pitcher, ranking 5th among the team's prospects before the 2024 season. He dominated in the minors, but an injury cut his season short. After a successful rehab, Ryan is now focused on fine-tuning his pitches and building stamina. He's added muscle to his frame, which could potentially increase his velocity and overall health, much like Carlos Rodon's transformation before his breakout season.
Ryan's goal is simple: stay healthy. He's determined to contribute in any role, whether it's in the starting rotation or the bullpen. But the question remains: will the Dodgers give him a chance to shine in the rotation, or will they opt for a more seasoned pitcher?
And here's where it gets interesting: Could Ryan's injury-induced focus on the mental game give him an edge? Is there a hidden advantage in his approach?
What do you think? Is River Ryan the missing piece the Dodgers need, or should they stick with more experienced pitchers? Share your thoughts in the comments!
