Dodgers Rumors: Brandon McCarthy A Rotation Lock?

There were two open spots in the Dodgers’ rotation open for competition. That might be dwindled to one.

Brandon McCarthy has likely won a starting job.

Dave Roberts said the team is still undecided on the last two members of the starting rotation. Brandon McCarthy looks like a lock, though.

— Andy McCullough (@ByMcCullough) March 25, 2017

Dave Roberts left the door open, but common sense sides with Andy McCullough. McCarthy has proven healthy again, and with several question marks behind him, he’s a safer bet.

Scott Kazmir, initially adjacent to McCarthy before spring training, has fallen off a cliff. Kazmir missed time with hip tightness, and while he returns tomorrow, the veteran isn’t up to speed. He last clocked 87 on the radar gun, four mph lower than last season. It’s becoming increasingly difficult to imagine Kazmir playing a significant role on this Dodgers team.

Alex Wood and Hyun-Jin Ryu are presumably fighting for the final spot. Dave Roberts recently said the team is better with Ryu in the rotation, which may have tipped his hand. Either player can seamlessly slide into a bullpen role.

And now, L.A. will hope McCarthy can rediscover his New York Yankees form that prompted it to offer him a contract two offseasons ago.