Dave Roberts strongly hints at unexpected solution to Dodgers’ empty rotation spot

The Dodgers' pitching depth has already been tested less than 20 games into the season, and it hasn't exactly looked like all it was cracked up to be. Rookies Justin Wrobleski and Landon Knack were both called up during the Dodgers' series against the Nationals, covering for Blake Snell's absence from the rotation, and they gave up a combined 13 earned runs in 7 1/3 innings pitched. The offense was able to pick up Knack in the late innings for a win, but they still suffered their second consecutive series loss.

Wrobleski was optioned after his start to make room for Knack, which meant that the Dodgers wouldn't be able to call him back up again for a couple of weeks.

The plan, per Dave Roberts, was to keep Knack in the rotation for a start against the Rockies on April 15, but that leaves the Dodgers in need for another spot starter to close out the series.

Bobby Miller made his second start and third appearance in Oklahoma City on Friday, but he was pulled after just 2 1/3 innings. When asked about it on Saturday, Roberts asked, "Was he? That's interesting."

Bobby Miller might get his season debut as Dodgers rotate starters in Blake Snell's absence

Miller gave up just two hits (but three walks) during that Friday start, and it definitely seemed like he would have a chance at the majors again after Wrobleski and Knack's poor showings. He's kept his ERA down to 2.25 through 12 total innings in Triple-A and, while command is clearly still an issue (he's walked as many batters as he's struck out), Snell's place on the IL is the perfect opportunity to get another look at what Miller can do with a disastrous 2024 season in the rearview mirror.

He seemed like a viable option for the rotation going into spring training and was originally competing with Dustin May and Tony Gonsolin. However, any case he was prepared to make was halted when he took a line drive to the head in spring training, which kept him out of the action for a while. The Dodgers optioned him to Triple-A before he could get another start in camp.

If not Miller, then it'll likely be a bullpen game for the finale in Colorado. But Miller needs a couple of reps in the majors for the Dodgers to clarify his future with the organization, and there's no better time than now.