Dodgers Bullpen Shows Promise with Kershaw and Sasaki’s Relief Appearances

PHOENIX — The Los Angeles Dodgers gave fans a glimpse of their potential postseason bullpen Wednesday night as they defeated the Diamondbacks in 11 innings. Key relief appearances by Clayton Kershaw and Bobby Sasaki highlighted the game.

Sasaki, 23, made a significant return to the mound after being activated from the 60-day injured list prior to the game. He struck out two batters in the seventh inning, showcasing a fastball that nearly touched 100 mph. This was his first game back since May 9, when he suffered a shoulder injury.

Manager Dave Roberts praised Sasaki’s performance, noting, “He looks like a different person. I think that we’ve simplified things as far as the bullpen.” This change seems to have built his confidence, as he had only made starts in his previous eight appearances before transitioning to relief.

Kershaw, a three-time Cy Young Award winner, also had his first relief appearance of the season, having started 21 games prior. He retired all three batters he faced in the ninth inning to help extend the game into extra innings. Kershaw expressed his willingness to take on any role as the Dodgers head into the postseason, saying, “It’s an adrenaline rush for sure. Relieving is just a different animal altogether.”

The Dodgers, the defending World Series champions, are actively seeking bullpen stability as the postseason nears. This comes on the heels of a disappointing loss where the team blew a save against the Diamondbacks the previous night.

Sasaki joined the Dodgers earlier this year on a minor league contract after leaving Japan’s Chiba Lotte Marines. His debut season has seen some challenges, but the team is hopeful he can contribute effectively moving forward.

As the regular season draws to a close, both Kershaw and Sasaki will be crucial as the Dodgers look to build a strong bullpen.