Dodgers: Adam Kolarek making his presence known in NLDS

Many Dodgers fans weren’t satisfied with the organization’s moves, or lack thereof, at this year’s trade deadline (although those calling for the acquisition of Felipe Vasquez likely have had a change of heart).

Turns out for the Dodgers and Andrew Friedman, a “no-name” Adam Kolarek, who was acquired from Tampa Bay, has been money with the Boys in Blue. The sidewinding lefty amassed a microscopic .77 ERA over 26 appearances with LA over the regular season, retiring 27 of the 33 left-handed batters he was called upon to face.

He’s carried his success into the postseason, retiring the dangerous Juan Soto in key situations the first three games of the NLDS. Anytime Dave Roberts needs a left-handed batter out in the clutch, he can call on Kolarek to get the job done. With any bullpen uncertainty magnified in a playoff setting, the Dodgers have a bona fide LOOGY (Left-handed One Out Guy) they can depend on.

More from LA Dodgers News

• Kevin Kiermaier being ‘top target’ to replace Cody Bellinger is bad sign for Dodgers
• Giants laughably sign pitcher that Dodgers absolutely own
• Dave Roberts’ quote about Padres in NLDS should motivate Dodgers
• Former Astro seemingly takes uncalled for shot at Cody Bellinger after Cubs deal
• Dodgers’ 2023 lineup without Trea Turner isn’t as impressive as it should be

What makes Kolarek so effective? Despite his lack of velocity (ranks in just the seventh percentile in fastball velocity), Kolarek throws a fastball or sinker 81.9% of the time. This may not sound like a recipe for success, but Kolarek has limited left-handed batters to a measly .524 OPS.

In a league becoming more and more focused on velocity and missing bats, Kolarek bucks the trend by focusing on deception and keeping the ball on the ground. His funky delivery and downward movement on his sinker contribute to a very high groundball rate, nearly .67%.

Giving up ground balls may not be the flashiest way to get outs, but it’s certainly good for limiting damage.

Unfortunately for Kolarek and all other MLB LOOGYs, he may be rendered obsolete by a rule change next season. Beginning in 2020, all pitchers will have to face a minimum of three batters in an effort to increase the pace of play.

Maybe the Dodgers will find a way to utilize Kolarek’s strengths with the upcoming rule change, but for now, they can count on Kolarek to neutralize big left-handed bats in the playoffs.