Dodgers vs. Diamondbacks: Key Players to Watch in NLDS

Archie Bradley & Fernando Rodney

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I’m grouping these two together because in all likelihood if you see one, you will see both. But these two pitchers are on the complete opposite side of the spectrums. In my opinion, Bradley is the best reliever the Dbacks have. While Rodney assumes the closing responsibilities, he does not make me worried when he’s on the mound to close a game.

Bradley, a transitioned starter, has become a nice find for Lovullo at the back end of the bullpen. He has a 1.73 ERA in 73 innings out of relief and is averaging just over a strikeout per nine innings.

Meanwhile, Rodney is a volatile closer that struggles with command. Rodney has 39 saves on the season but also has an ERA of 4.23. He’s blown six saves this season, including a few to the Dodgers this season. To put this into perspective. I’d rather face Rodney with the last three outs than Bradley.

Next: Dodgers Need to Set the Tone

Aside from these two, there really isn’t anything worth writing about for this Dbacks bullpen. They are only carrying two lefties in their bullpen in Jorge de la Rosa and Andrew Chafin so that the Dodgers won’t have a lot of platoon disadvantages late in games. Outside of Bradley, there is only one other reliever with an ERA under 3.00 (J.J. Hoover) who didn’t even make the roster. The gameplan should be obvious for Dodger hitters. Work the count early so they can get into the bullpen as soon as possible.