Dodgers: Dave Roberts Does Not Want a Designated Closer
The Dodgers have relied on Kenley Jansen for a very long time. For the past decade, he’s been the guy that Dave Roberts has turned to in the 9th inning and lock down wins. But now that he has moved on to the Atlanta Braves on a free agent deal, Doc will need to decide how to approach closing out games.
Last year, we got to see Dave change things up a little bit. He deviated from the norm of strictly using Kenley in the 9th inning, pivoting on occasion to matchup-based usage. And it sounds like the Dodgers could go that route this year, only more aggressively.
Speaking with members of the media on Saturday, Dave Roberts talked about Kenley leaving the Dodgers. Doc also mentioned that the 9th inning wasn’t going to be an assigned role, meaning he would like to base usage off of matchups.
“It’s not necessarily the inning. It’s more of who they match up best against. That’s more of the conversation that we have. So as long as we feel like we’re putting whatever reliever it is in the best chance to dominate those hitters, then all guys are accepting and understanding of them.”
The most logical replacement for Kenley in the 9th is Blake Treinen. Once an All-Star closer for the A’s, Treinen locked down 7 saves for the Dodgers last season. His pitch mix and velocity play up big time in relief, but especially late in games.
Dodgers Related: Should LA Go After Craig Kimbrel?
But Treinen has also filled a crucial role for the Dodgers the last few seasons. More often than not Doc has matched him up with the tougher run of hitters. That has resulted in a 2.48 ERA and 107 strikeouts over the course of 98 innings pitched.
So expect the Dodgers to go with a closer-by-committee approach, at least to start the season.
Dodgers: Kenley Jansen Thanks LA Fans After Signing With Atlanta
For someone who has no clue as to how to use a bullpen he needs a designated 9th inning closer. Will be interesting to see how he handles new IR rule.
No deals of more pitchers? A so-called manager, “does not want a designated closer”?? This season will be a hoot. The words from a good movie, ‘you’re killin’ me smalls.’
Oh goody, no signings with starting pitching and this so-called manager, “does not want a designated closer,” this season will be a hoot, it will be over before it started.
My hope is that with as many runs as the Dodgers will score this season, the “closer” roll will not be quite as important.
One of the apparent weaknesses of this team is having a good 4th and 5th starting pitcher, and outstanding lock down relievers. It does not appear we have either. I hope I am wrong about this.