Steve Webb
LOS ANGELES, CA — In a pregame interview prior to NLCS Game 2, Dodgers relief pitchers Daniel Hudson and Ben Casparius discussed the remarkable pitching performance by the Dodgers bullpen during the 2024 postseason. In Sunday’s game, the Dodgers tied a nearly 60-year-old record by delivering 33 consecutive scoreless innings, showcasing the strength and resilience of the team. Both pitchers reflected on the accomplishment, the preparation that led to it, and how they are approaching the rest of the postseason.
Hudson and Casparius emphasized the bullpen’s preparation and execution as key factors behind the team’s success. “I think everybody is just super prepared,” said Casparius, noting that the bullpen’s focus on game planning and executing against different parts of the opponent’s lineup has been crucial. Hudson echoed these sentiments, highlighting the pride the bullpen has taken in sustaining this run, especially considering how heavily the bullpen was relied upon throughout the regular season. “To see that carry over and have success in the playoffs has been really cool for a lot of us,” he said.
Casparius, experiencing his first postseason, credited his teammates for helping him stay grounded and focused. “The biggest message was just to be myself,” he shared, explaining that he was encouraged to approach each game as just another day of baseball, without overthinking the moment or changing his routine.
Reflecting on the evolution of pitching strategies in the postseason, Hudson acknowledged the changing role of bullpens in modern baseball. When asked how he would have reacted in 2009 to the idea of bullpen games becoming a playoff strategy, he admitted he would have been surprised. “It’s definitely different from when I came up in the big leagues for the first time, but it’s pretty cool to see bullpen guys kind of get used like this,” Hudson said, adding that while he enjoys seeing starting pitchers go deep into games, he appreciates the intensity and strategy involved in a low-scoring playoff game.
Hudson also reflected on the team’s ability to adapt, especially in light of injuries that have affected the starting rotation. “We’ve had some catastrophic injuries in the rotation this year,” he said. He credited young pitchers who have stepped up to play significant roles throughout the season, whether as starters or relievers. The flexibility and depth of the pitching staff have allowed the Dodgers to weather these challenges and thrive.
Both Hudson and Casparius revealed that they were only vaguely aware of the record-setting scoreless streak until recently. Hudson found out about the potential milestone just before the Dodgers’ latest shutout, while Casparius was informed afterward. They both expressed relief that the information wasn’t at the forefront of their minds during games, which helped them stay focused on executing each pitch.
The pitchers also gave credit to Dodgers catcher Will Smith, who has played a vital role in the team’s success. Hudson praised Smith’s ability to work with a diverse group of pitchers and navigate each game based on their individual strengths. “Will’s done a tremendous job,” Hudson said, acknowledging the catcher’s significant contribution to the team’s scoreless streak.
As the Dodgers prepare for the next challenge in the postseason, the bullpen remains confident and committed to maintaining its dominance on the mound. The team’s success in pitching has been built on preparation, adaptability, and a collective effort to keep pushing forward, one scoreless inning at a time.
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