Originally published by DodgerBlue.com
The Los Angeles Dodgers made a pitching change for Sunday’s series finale against the Washington Nationals in order to keep Clayton Kershaw on a regular rotation and provide Dustin May with extra rest before his next outing.
“It’s a long season, so Dustin to kind of curtail some days and get him back in there, that was kind of the impetus behind that,” manager Dave Roberts explained. “He’ll be slotted in shortly. It’s just kind of pushing him back a little bit to keep Clayton on line.”
Roberts added May would not appear out of the bullpen while waiting to be re-inserted into the rotation. As for the remaining starters, the Dodgers’ order would indicate Trevor Bauer starts Tuesday. However, the Dodgers are undecided how they will resume the rest of their rotation.
“We’re trying to talk through next week’s rotation,” Roberts said.
Whatever decision is made with Bauer will invariably impact May, and vice versa. May last pitched on April 5 in his regular season debut. He threw 85 pitches and struck out eight over six shutout innings against the Oakland Athletics.
Roberts has assured the delay with May taking the mound for a second start is not related to injury.
There is no scenario with which Bauer — who has long been a proponent of pitching of every fourth day — will not next start on extra rest. At minimum he will pitch with five days of rest, and a sixth day if L.A. elects to slot in May on Tuesday instead of Bauer.
There also is the wrinkle of MLB reportedly investigating baseballs Bauer used in his last start, but he’s not believed to be facing a risk of punishment.
The decision-making for the early to mid-week games will impact the weekend, which is of note as the Dodgers begin a three-game series with the San Diego Padres on Friday.
Bellinger eligible to return for Padres series
Aside from pitching, the Dodgers may also face a decision with Cody Bellinger, who is on the 10-day injured list due to a left calf contusion. Bellinger’s stint was backdated, making him eligible to be activated Friday.
“I don’t think so,” answered Roberts when asked if the weekend matchup would influence when the Dodgers reinstate Bellinger. “We’ve got a lot of talented players. We can win without Cody being in the lineup, but it certainly makes us a lot better.”
Have you subscribed to the Dodger Blue YouTube channel? It’s the best way to watch player interviews, participate in our shows and giveaways, and more!
