LA Dodgers’ Pitching Improves with Acquisition of Left-Handed Reliever Ryan Yarbrough
Veteran reliever Ryan Yarbrough strengthens Dodgers' bullpen after trade deadline acquisition
As the Los Angeles Dodgers‘ season progresses, the initial pitching challenges they faced have begun to settle. Although the pitching staff isn’t yet at the desired level, notable improvements have been observed.
Between May and July, the team went through a rough patch, but following the trade deadline, things started looking up. The Dodgers may not have made significant splashes during the trade deadline, but they strategically welcomed a group of capable players who only needed a change of environment to shine. One of these talents is left-handed reliever Ryan Yarbrough, previously with the Kansas City Royals. Despite his acquisition occurring in the final moments of the deadline, Yarbrough’s presence has already made a significant impact.
During his time with the Royals, Yarbrough maintained an ERA of 4.24 across 14 games. However, his performance has soared since joining the Dodgers, boasting an impressive ERA of 1.86 in six games. Furthermore, he holds an impressive record of 3 wins and 0 losses, along with two holds and two saves.
The veteran reliever’s exceptional performance has brought reassurance to the bullpen, relieving some of the team’s concerns. His versatility as a solid left-handed option and long reliever is a valuable asset for the Dodgers moving forward, aligning with Manager Dave Roberts’ preferences.
“It was like, ‘Look this guy put up really good numbers and his ability to flood the zone with multiple pitches’ – we could then work later on execution, stability with our game planning,” Gomes said. “The compete on this guy is through the roof. Everybody in Tampa and Kansas City was saying, ‘It’s just the ultimate competitor.’ He wants to win and he puts a huge emphasis on that, wants to be the best he can be.”
General Manager Brandon Gomes recently shared insights with J.P. Hoornstra of The Orange County Register regarding the decision to trade for Yarbrough. Gomes emphasized Yarbrough’s competitiveness on the mound and his role in enhancing the team’s performance. Interestingly, Yarbrough was part of the Tampa Bay Rays’ roster during the Dodgers’ 2020 World Series encounter, infusing crucial postseason experience into the team (notably, he holds a 3.06 ERA across 17.2 career postseason innings).
“Gomes was quick to note Yarbrough’s numbers in Kansas City after he returned from a grisly injury, a line drive that struck him in the face during a May 7 game against the Oakland A’s: 5-1 with a 1.95 ERA and one save in eight games (four starts).”
Per J.P. Hoornstra of The OC Register
Gomes highlighted that many of Yarbrough’s challenges during his tenure with the Kansas City Royals occurred before an injury he sustained in May. Following his recovery, Yarbrough’s performance exhibited remarkable stability. This seemingly minor trade has, so far, yielded remarkable outcomes. To maintain this level of production, Yarbrough will be pivotal down the final stretch of the season. If he succeeds, his presence in the playoffs is expected to be prominent.
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