Steve Webb
LOS ANGELES, CA — Dodgers manager Dave Roberts gave an in-depth look at the team’s strategy for Game 6 of the National League Championship Series, providing key updates on their pitching plans and the health status of Freddie Freeman and Gavin Lux. With a bullpen game on tap, Roberts discussed the decision to start Michael Kopech, as well as the challenges presented by Giants pitcher Sean Manaea’s unconventional delivery. He also addressed Freeman and Lux’s readiness as they work through injuries.
Pitching Plans: Michael Kopech Takes the Mound
Roberts explained the decision to start Michael Kopech, citing favorable matchups and the right-hander’s previous starting experience. “It’s a part of the lineup that we like Michael,” Roberts said. “He’s started games before, and we just feel it’s the best chance to put up a zero in the first inning and then kind of move forward.” The manager emphasized that Kopech was not necessarily the original plan for Game 6, but the coaching staff decided he was the best option after evaluating the alternatives over the past few days.
As the Dodgers face the possibility of a Game 7, Roberts acknowledged that managing the bullpen will be a balancing act. While he is willing to use certain relievers for multiple innings if needed to secure the win, he also recognizes the importance of keeping arms fresh for a potential decisive game tomorrow. “How the game plays out will dictate that,” Roberts noted, indicating that bullpen management will be dynamic depending on the situation during the game.
The Challenge of Sean Manaea
The Dodgers will be facing Manaea, who has evolved his pitching style this season, making him a more formidable opponent. Manaea’s slot, which is now more sidearm, creates a different angle and movement on his pitches. “The slot… makes it tougher on the right-hand hitter coming into you versus more kind of two to seven on the breaking ball,” Roberts explained. The arm slot adjustment has also altered the characteristics of his pitches, adding more “rise” to his fastball and making his breaking ball “sweepier.” Roberts believes that familiarity with Manaea’s delivery will benefit his hitters, as the more they see his revamped style, the better they will be able to adjust. In preparation, some Dodgers hitters, including Shohei Ohtani, have faced the “Traj” pitching machine, which replicates Manaea’s release point and pitch movement.
Freddie Freeman: Still on the Mend
Freeman, one of the Dodgers’ key offensive players, has been dealing with lingering issues that have affected his readiness. While Freeman took batting practice the previous day and reported feeling “fine,” he didn’t feel quite like himself, leading Roberts and the medical staff to decide to give him another day of rest. “We felt that giving him another day is best for him,” Roberts stated, adding that Freeman will still be available as a pinch-hitter if needed. The Dodgers hope to have him ready for more significant action in a potential Game 7 if the series extends.
Gavin Lux: Progress but Not 100%
Gavin Lux has been dealing with an injury of his own, which has limited his availability, especially against left-handed pitchers. Though the left-handed hitting Lux has shown some progress, Roberts noted that he’s still not 100% and has faced limited exposure to left-handed pitching this season. “If we can buy him another day, I think it’s beneficial,” Roberts explained, echoing a cautious approach similar to that taken with Freeman. Lux, like Freeman, will be available off the bench, and Roberts anticipates seeing him in the game in some capacity.
Momentum and Mindset
Despite the health concerns and adjustments, Roberts remains optimistic about his team’s overall play. He cited the importance of taking “good at-bats” and the positive takeaways from the series, aside from two difficult innings. With the pitching plan revolving around a bullpen game, Roberts expressed confidence in the depth and quality of his relievers, emphasizing the team’s ability to use “a lot of different guys” to get through the game.
As the Dodgers look to clinch the series tonight, the manager’s approach balances urgency with pragmatism, recognizing the need to be flexible while also pushing for a win. The team’s decision-making around Kopech, and the cautious handling of Freeman and Lux, illustrate a careful approach designed to maximize the Dodgers’ chances of advancing to the World Series, while also preserving key contributors for the games ahead.
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