Dodgers 25-Man Roster If the Season Started Today

The Dodgers bullpen could get better by adding another pitcher. I would particularly like to see a powerful lefty to pair with Kenley Jansen at the end of ballgames. Someone who has experience slamming the door with a lead in the late innings would be ideal. For now the team can rely on right-hander Pedro Baez to provide a workman-like setup for Jansen in the eighth, albeit at a sloth’s pace.

Acquired in a mid-season trade last year, the Dodgers are hoping Tony Cingrani can develop into a late inning ace. There’s power in Cingrani’s left arm, but he still needs to hone in on the strike-zone more consistently to challenge hitters. Along with LA’s other non-waiver deadline trade to add lefty Tony Watson last summer, these deals reveal that the Dodgers bullpen, at least from the left hand side, is a work in progress.

As evidence, the Dodgers did some more tinkering with their bullpen composition already this offseason. Lefty middle-reliever Scott Alexander was acquired from Kansas City in the very same three-way deal that sent Luis Avilan from Los Angeles to the Chicago White Sox. Alexander will replacing Luis Avilan on the roster and in the bullpen.

Ross Stripling returns to provide long relief and the occasional spot start as he has done throughout his career. Josh Fields is expected to shut down opposing hitters in the seventh and could be a surprise breakout bullpen star. In addition, the Dodgers went out and signed Tom Koehler as their latest reliever reclamation project. I don’t know if he’ll find the success of Brandon Morrow or Joe Blanton, but this is certain, the man sings with lovely vibrato.

7 Relief Pitchers:

Ross Stripling, Right-handed Pitcher

Tom Koehler, Right-handed Pitcher

Scott Alexander, Left-handed Pitcher

Josh Fields, Right-handed Pitcher

Tony Cingrani, Left-handed Pitcher

Pedro Baez, Right-handed Pitcher

Kenley Jansen, Right-handed Closer