Pepiot lands Dodgers’ fifth starter role
GLENDALE, Ariz. — The Dodgers’ beginning rotation to start out 2023 is ready.
With Tony Gonsolin beginning the season on the 15-day injured record with a left ankle sprain, the Dodgers had an surprising opening. The two logical choices had been Pepiot and Grove, two strong decisions. In the top, Pepiot’s improved command and strong spring gave him the primary crack at making an influence this season.
“They both earned that opportunity. Probably the toughest decision we had to think through,” Roberts stated. “I guess, to put it more simply, we just felt Ryan outperformed Michael this spring. … We just felt it was the right decision at this point in time.”
In 2022, Pepiot went 3-0 with a 3.47 ERA in 9 appearances (seven begins), however he struggled with command. The Dodgers’ No. 6 prospect per MLB Pipeline centered on throwing extra strikes this offseason and reworked his trademark changeup after shedding some really feel for the pitch final season. This spring, Pepiot has struck out 19 over 13 2/3 innings and walked simply 5 throughout 5 begins.
“He’s made huge strides,” Roberts stated. “And I say that with the mechanics. The delivery is a lot more consistent. There just seems to be more clarity and things have slowed down for him. We just feel like his stuff plays at the Major League level.”
With Pepiot within the rotation, Roberts stated the beginning pitching order for the primary 5 video games of the season is tentatively set. Urías will begin the season opener at Dodger Stadium vs. the D-backs, adopted by May within the second recreation and Kershaw within the third recreation. Syndergaard and Pepiot will spherical issues out in a two-game set vs. the Rockies.
Roberts stated the choice to start out May within the second recreation and never Kershaw was made solely as a result of the workforce wished to separate up the lefties atop the rotation. Kershaw will make his ultimate begin of the spring on Sunday in opposition to the Angels at Dodger Stadium.
Andre Jackson additionally received a spot on the Opening Day roster, in accordance with Roberts. Jackson will function a multi-inning reliever, giving the Dodgers insurance coverage because the starters proceed to construct up early within the season.
Jackson had a strong spring for the Dodgers, posting a 1.17 ERA and placing out 10 over 7 2/3 innings. The right-hander struggled within the Minors final season, however posted a 1.86 ERA in 4 appearances with the Dodgers.
“To have a guy that can give you 75 pitches is really meaningful,” Roberts stated. “Andre has earned the opportunity to be the length guy on our roster.”
