Dodgers Pitching Woes: Ryan Pepiot Emerges as Playoff Hope
As MLB postseason approaches, the Dodgers face pitching challenges, but can Ryan Pepiot be their savior?
Just weeks away from the MLB postseason, the Los Angeles Dodgers find themselves grappling with a turbulent starting rotation. Julio Urias, a key pitcher, is currently on administrative leave and likely out for the year. Clayton Kershaw, another crucial arm, is far from being at 100 percent, while Lance Lynn is struggling to find his form. To make matters worse, Walker Buehler has been sidelined for the remainder of the season.
It is becoming increasingly evident that LA may have to place their trust in some of their younger pitchers when the playoffs roll around. This prospect, while not without its merits given their performance this season, raises concerns due to the inexperience of these arms when it comes to postseason pressure.
Amidst this uncertainty, right-handed pitcher Ryan Pepiot has emerged as a beacon of hope for the Dodgers. Since his return from injury, Pepiot’s performances have been nothing short of extraordinary, solidifying his credentials as a genuine option for October.
“It would be incredible,” Pepiot said. “Everyone wants to play in October. October baseball is something special. Just going out there every night and just trying to advance, win one game at a time, and go as far as you can would mean a lot to me.”
In a recent matchup against the Miami Marlins, Pepiot once again showcased his prowess. He delivered a sterling performance, blanking the Marlins by allowing zero runs and just one hit over an impressive seven innings. What’s more, Pepiot took a perfect game into the 7th inning, effectively shutting down Miami’s offense.
Pepiot’s standout display in that game was precisely what the Dodgers needed to avoid a sweep by the Marlins, and he did it in spectacular fashion.
“He just keeps getting better every time he takes the baseball,” Roberts said.
It’s worth noting that Pepiot only recently returned from an oblique injury that had sidelined him for the majority of the season. However, many tend to forget that he had secured a spot on the Opening Day roster as a starter before his injury.
Today, Pepiot is demonstrating precisely what the Dodgers believed he was capable of. He is proving his mettle in the major leagues, and his contributions this season can only be described as exceptional.
“When things happen that are unforeseen, it creates opportunities for others,” Roberts said. “To (Ryan’s) credit, he’s going out there and opening a lot of eyes.”
Considering the myriad struggles the Dodgers’ pitching staff has encountered this season, it appears that their fortunes in the 2023 season will hinge on the performance of these promising young arms from the farm system.
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