Dodgers Way Quick Hits: Stripling, Bellinger, Hill, Trade

Ross Stripling has far and away been the Dodgers’ best pitcher in 2018. On Tuesday, June 5, Stripling continued to push his name towards to top in baseball with five shutout innings during which he struck seven batters, walked none, and gave up four hits. Stripling’s ERA ranks third amongst MLB pitchers with at least 50 innings pitched at 1.52 and his soft contact rating also ranks third best in the same category of pitchers. Stripling’s numbers on the season have been seriously impressive and aside from those mentioned earlier. He has struck out 66 batters and walked just 11 on the season. His tendency to strike batters out has been overwhelming this year as Ross has posted an 11.1 SO9, one of best for starters. If Stripling can continue his prowess in the rotation, the Dodgers will have to make some serious decisions as to where Rich Hill, Kenta Maeda, and Hyun Jin Ryu will pitch upon their returns.

Other Notes…

Cody Bellinger’s 2018 season has been rocky, to say the least. His batting average is down significantly from last year’s mark and his .4 WAR is also indicative of the young first baseman’s struggles. But, despite having a hard time at the plate and losing some playing time to the slugging, Max Muncy, Bellinger did provide a home run against the Pirates on Tuesday and it could serve as a sign for things to come. Bellinger, who relies fairly heavily on his power, needs all the confidence he can get and his 425-foot moon-shot should provide some of that for him in this rough patch of games.

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Rich Hill’s progress in his rehab has gone much quicker than originally expected. The 37-year old southpaw threw 100 pitches on Tuesday afternoon in Pittsburgh, 60 of which were thrown with no protection on his blister-laden finger. Dave Roberts told reporters after this extended bullpen that Hill is coming along nicely and will throw a simulated game later this week before determining his rehab assignment plan. Rich Hill has struggled to get right in 2018 but health-wise and in terms of his pitching as he owns an ERA of 6.20 and a -.6 WAR. Hill will look to turn his luck around once he rejoins the team.

Although there have been no rumors connecting the two sides, the Dodgers and Reds could consider making a deal centered around second baseman, Scooter Gennett. Gennett is hitting the ball as well as any position player in the league and his contract is very team friendly. The return required for a player like Gennett would, however, projecst to be quite high given his success over the past few years but, exploring the transaction has to be at least worth a phone call.

Next: Dodgers: First and Second Round Draft Pick Review

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