Dodgers: Three Takeaways From the Series Win Over the Cubs

A solid weekend for the rest of the Dodger bullpen

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Outside of Kenley Jansen’s two earned runs in his blown save, the rest of the Dodger bullpen pitched a shutout in the four-game series against the Cubs.  Julio Urias started things off with a three-inning save in the series-opening win.  While it remains to be seen if Julio will stick in the bullpen, he could be used the same way Josh Hader is used.

The starting rotation helped take pressure off of the bullpen by pitching deep into games yet again.  The shortest outing was by Clayton Kershaw who still managed to pitch six innings before giving way to Julio Urias.  Hill, Buehler, and Ryu all pitched seven innings leaving the pen with just two innings of work.

In the middle two games of the series, the Dodgers chose to go with Pedro Baez and Kenley Jansen who have been the trusted duo at the end of games for Dave Roberts.  Saturday’s blown save will not change that and Baez has quietly been the best reliever in the Dodger bullpen this season.

Ross Stripling also pitched an effective inning against the heart of the Cubs’ order in Sunday’s series-clinching victory.  Chicken Strip has not been very effective out of the bullpen but hopefully, the former starter settles in to become another trusted late-game option.  The Dodgers have the next month to evaluate their own options and seek the appropriate bullpen upgrade.