Dodgers: Rotation Options when DL Reinforcements Return

Option 4: Kershaw-Stripling-Wood-Buehler-Urias-Ryu….Maeda and Hill to the bullpen

You didn’t think I forgot about the lefty phenom, did you?

Urias was targeting a return by late July. It is unclear whether that goal will be met or not, but if it does Urias could see himself fighting for a spot in the rotation. This is a very optimistic view on my part, considering the magnitude of injury Urias would be returning from.

He more than likely will see a lot of time in OKC and if he does eventually get to Los Angeles it will be very difficult for him to crack the rotation. But what the heck, let’s have fun with this and hope that if he returns, it will be as a starter and he will be back on track towards being the elite pitcher many thought he would become.

Once again this has a 6 man rotation, Urias would likely be that hybrid guy that was mentioned earlier. This role would help ease him into the bigs again and not just throw him into the lion’s den right away.

Also, this is the first time on this list I mention Hill to the bullpen. He has been a reliever in his career before. His blister issue could be resolved by less usage and if that means a move to the bullpen, Hill could find himself back as a reliever.

With Tom Koehler’s return being pushed back yet again, the need for another high leverage guy is in need. Maeda has already proven himself in that role and it would be beneficial as I mentioned earlier.