Dodgers Interview: Doc on His Evolving Bullpen as Team Eyes October
PHOENIX — Before Wednesday night’s game in Phoenix, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts addressed the state of his bullpen, confirming the team’s latest roster moves and outlining what could be a crucial stretch leading into October.
Yates to the IL, Sasaki Activated
As expected, the Dodgers placed veteran reliever Kirby Yates on the injured list with a hamstring issue that has lingered for weeks. Yates had been trying to push through, but the toll was evident. Roberts acknowledged both the disappointment in Yates’ performance and the value he still provides behind the scenes.
“The performance isn’t what any of us expected, but the injury piece is real,” Roberts said. “Having Kirby around mentoring and encouraging guys, especially in the bullpen this time of year, can still be a big benefit.”
In Yates’ place, Roki Sasaki officially joins the Dodgers’ bullpen. The 23-year-old hasn’t pitched in the majors since May due to shoulder trouble, but his recent Triple-A outings convinced the club he was ready to contribute in short bursts.
A Trial by Fire for Sasaki
Roberts made it clear that Sasaki won’t be eased in with mop-up duty. With only five games left in the regular season and every inning carrying weight, there’s no such thing as low-leverage anymore.
“If we’re expecting him to pitch for us in October, they’re all leverage innings,” Roberts explained. “So I don’t think we’re going to run from putting him in any spot.”
The manager’s expectations for Sasaki are simple: conviction and aggression. “Just give everything he has for an inning or two, be on the attack, and let the performance play out,” Roberts said.
The Dodgers would like to see him on the mound more than once before the season ends, but even a couple of appearances could be enough to decide whether Sasaki earns a postseason role.
Sorting Out the Late Innings
When asked who would get the final three outs in a tight game right now, Roberts admitted the answer is still uncertain. “It is [a tough question],” he said. “That’s just kind of where we’re at.”
He emphasized that it comes down to trust—trusting pitchers to attack the zone, throw quality strikes, and compete without hesitation. Roberts singled out Clayton Kershaw as someone who embodies those traits, noting that even though the veteran is lined up to start Sunday, he wouldn’t hesitate to use him in a relief spot if needed.
Updates on Stewart and Smith
Two other health notes surfaced in Roberts’ session:
- Brock Stewart is still dealing with shoulder soreness. He remains “pitchable,” Roberts said, but his availability will be evaluated day-to-day.
- Will Smith, still wearing a splint on his hand, has been catching bullpens and doing conditioning work even though he’s not swinging yet. The catcher continues to do everything he can to stay sharp while his injury heals.
Big Picture
The Dodgers’ bullpen is in flux, but Roberts is betting on conviction and adaptability to carry the group through the final week and into October. Yates’ struggles and injuries have opened the door for Sasaki, whose raw talent could be a difference-maker if he adjusts quickly to his new role.
With five games left, the team will find out soon whether Sasaki is ready for the high-leverage moments that define October.
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