Dodgers News: Alex Wood Wins NL Player of The Week

The Dodgers have back-to-back NL Player of The Week award winners. Both from players who have taken on larger-than-expected roles.

Alex Wood is this week’s recipient, following rookie sensation Cody Bellinger. It’s the first time Wood has won the honor.

Alex Wood is NL Player of the Week. Second straight week for the Dodgers to receive the honor.

— Dodger Insider (@DodgerInsider) May 15, 2017

Congratulations, @Awood45! #LetsGoDodgers

Alex Wood has been named the National League Player of the Week! pic.twitter.com/LLXWdf81Q0

— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) May 15, 2017

Wood’s success came at the right time. The Dodgers rotation has been weakened by injuries, forcing Wood into a starting spot just over a week into the season. He’s rewarded their faith with a 2.27 ERA and 48 strikeouts in 35.2 innings. He struck out 21 hitters in his two starts last week.

Alex Wood now has 48 K in 35.2 IP. He has the third highest K%. I've always been high on him, but, wow. Wow.

— Mike Petriello (@mike_petriello) May 14, 2017

Despite only going six innings, Wood’s last start was perhaps the highlight of the week. He allowed just five hits and struck out 10 in a 4-0 win in Colorado. In his previous start, Wood collected 11 strikeouts and surrendered just two hits in five innings. He didn’t allow a run in either start.

Initially booted from a potential rotation spot in favor of Hyun-Jin Ryu, Wood stepped back in quickly. And he earned a permanent spot as a starter, according to Dave Roberts.

Wood nor Bellinger was expected to be a major contributor this early in the season. Both are topping expectations and have helped turn the Dodgers around after a mediocre start.