Dodgers: Ross Stripling Not Returning Until September
Right-handed pitcher Ross Stripling will not be returning until September 1 when rosters expand, according to Ken Gurnick of MLB.com.
Additionally, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts recently stated that Stripling would be returning as a relief pitcher, not as a starter.
Ross Stripling won’t return until Sept. 1, as a reliever.
— Ken Gurnick (@kengurnick) August 18, 2019
Stripling has fared somewhat well this season, posting a 3.55 DRA across 76 2/3 innings of work. He has struck out 76 batters on the season. For a further breakdown, the 29-year-old Stripling has been a lot better out of the bullpen in his career, posting a fantastic 3.24 ERA there in comparison to a 3.70 ERA as a starter.
Another interesting note about Stripling is his ability to get lefties out which could prove valuable on a team that not only lacks situational left-handed relievers, but also one that is built upon length and versatility. Stripling brings all three assets to the table.
While he does have a battle to fight for a playoff spot, Stripling may have the inside track on it due to experience, as opposed to someone like one of rookies Dustin May or Tony Gonsolin.
[adace-ad id=”113300″]Stripling not returning until September 1 has no dramatic effect on the club, but when he resurfaces from his neck injury, he should be a boon to the relief corps down the stretch.
Don’t come back at all
Chicken strip?
Just another arm to buy time(in the regular season) for the starters.
Glad to hear that Strips is on his way back!!! What role he will play will be shaped by what happens from now til season’s end. I just hope he can stay healthy!!!! Go Blue!!!
I hope he’s not on the playoff roster. His stuff does not play against quality teams. He should be trade bait in the off season to obtain a high leverage quality reliever. Maybe the Pirates will cooperate this time with Stripling as part of the package.