Dodgers News: Ross Stripling to Start Saturday
Ross Stripling is pegged to start this Saturday against the Milwaukee Brewers. Stripling hasn’t made a start in several months, however, his recent performances in the bullpen have earned him the chance.
Ross Stripling will start for the Dodgers on Saturday against Milwaukee.
— Ken Gurnick (@kengurnick) August 25, 2017
You may remember last year when Ross Stripling threw several no hit innings deep into an outing against the San Francisco Giants. However, that was his first start since coming off of Tommy John Surgery and Dave Roberts didn’t want to risk it. The no-hitter ended up being spoiled after Chris Hatcher gave up a home run in the eighth. Ross Stripling’s father shook the hands of Dave Roberts with tears in his eyes thanking him for pulling his son from the game and not risking any more damage to his elbow.
My Mom is going to be so proud! #PlayersWeekend pic.twitter.com/TfyjOX4kBc
— Ross Stripling (@RossStripling) August 9, 2017
Fast forward to now and Ross Stripling has been one of the more solid guy’s in the Dodgers’ bullpen. Turning in an ERA of 3.41 with 3 wins, 2 saves, and 59 K’s. Although he hasn’t started a game in a while, he has been the long relief guy for the Dodgers. Starting Stripling on Saturday is a move made because of injury, as well as poor performances from Brock Stewart who was optioned back to Triple-A in exchange for Kyle Farmer. With Kershaw, Wood, and Darvish all on the DL, the Dodgers will have to rely on their depth to push them across the finish line this year.
The finish line is no finish line, however. The Dodgers’ have locked in their 90th victory of the year on Thursday night, and they’re nearing a clinched playoff birth. The goal is to rest the arm of Darvish, Wood, and Kershaw so they’re fresh for playoffs. In that time, Hill, Maeda, Ryu, and Stripling will be the guys of the rotation.
