The Los Angeles Dodgers are making their final roster preparations ahead of the highly anticipated World Series. Most position player spots look set, but pitching decisions still hang in the balance.
Relief pitcher Alex Vesia’s availability is now up in the air due to a personal family matter. The Dodgers might have to go without one of their most reliable arms, which could shake up both the roster and bullpen plans before Game 1 in Toronto.
Pitching Plans Still Up in the Air
The Dodgers have a strong, steady lineup ready to go. Their pitching staff, though, is getting a last-minute look from the coaching staff.
Manager Dave Roberts has always been willing to tweak pitching plans based on matchups. Now, Alex Vesia’s potential absence throws another variable into the mix.
Vesia’s Role in the 2023 Postseason
Vesia has played a crucial role in the Dodgers’ playoff run, showing up in every round so far. He’s known for handling high-pressure moments and posted a 3.02 ERA over 54 regular season innings.
This postseason, he’s put up a 3.86 ERA in 4⅔ innings. Last year, he was lights out in the playoffs, shutting down opponents over 5⅔ scoreless innings.
Personal Matters Take Precedence
The team announced Vesia is away as he and his wife, Kayla, deal with a family situation. Dodgers insider Fabian Ardaya shared that the club still doesn’t know if Vesia can rejoin before the series starts.
MLB insider Bob Nightengale mentioned Vesia might go on the family medical emergency list, which would sideline him for at least three days and up to a week.
Impact on the Dodgers’ Bullpen
If Vesia can’t pitch, the Dodgers’ bullpen has to adapt. Losing a trusted lefty who excels against power hitters isn’t ideal.
Roberts may turn to other arms to keep things balanced late in games. Possible replacements might include:
- Left-handed relievers already on the expanded roster.
- Pitchers who can handle multiple innings out of the bullpen.
- Minor league call-ups with recent experience.
World Series Strategy and Readiness
The Dodgers have settled into Toronto ahead of Game 1 on Friday. The situation with Vesia keeps the team’s contingency plans wide open.
His return, if it happens, will be critical—not just for the roster, but for how they match up against Toronto’s hitters.
Dodgers’ Postseason Resilience
The Dodgers have had to adjust on the fly before in October. Roberts and his staff have a knack for making the most of the roster, even when things go sideways.
The team’s pitching depth could help cover Vesia’s absence, but let’s be honest: replacing his postseason track record won’t be easy.
What’s Next Before Game 1
Final roster submissions are due just before the series starts. The Dodgers get a few more days to make some tough choices.
Fans will keep a close eye on updates about Vesia’s status. Meanwhile, the rest of the bullpen is getting ready to handle a heavier load if they need to.
Every roster move could tip the scales on baseball’s biggest stage. No wonder Alex Vesia’s situation is one of the most closely watched stories heading into Game 1.
Here is the source article for this story: Dodgers veteran could miss World Series after sudden development
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