Dodgers have obvious bullpen move to make with struggling pitcher

The Los Angeles Dodgers have spent much of the season searching for bullpen stability, but one reliever's recent struggles are becoming increasingly difficult to overlook.

Southpaw Jack Dreyer looked like one of the Dodgers' biggest bullpen success stories during the first six weeks of the season. Before landing on the injured list with shoulder discomfort on May 17, Dreyer had emerged as a trusted option for manager Dave Roberts. Through his first 20 appearances, he allowed five runs in only two outings and consistently gave the Dodgers quality innings.

Since returning from the injured list, however, Dreyer has looked like a completely different pitcher. His ERA has skyrocketed, opposing hitters are doing significantly more damage, and home runs have suddenly become a major issue.

Most concerning is the frequency of Dreyer's rough outings. After allowing five runs in just two of his first 20 appearances, he has already surrendered seven runs in four of his seven appearances since returning from the IL.

Whether the issue is lingering effects from the shoulder injury or simply rust from the layoff is difficult to determine from the outside. What is clear is that his command and execution have not been nearly as sharp as they were before the IL stint.

Pitchers returning from shoulder injuries often need additional time to regain feel and consistency, and it's fair to wonder if Dreyer would have benefited from a minor league rehab assignment before being thrust back into meaningful Major League innings.

Dodgers should option Jack Dreyer to Triple-A as bullpen struggles persist

The Dodgers are fortunate to have alternatives. Veteran reliever Keynan Middleton, currently pitching at Triple-A Oklahoma City, continues working his way back from a 2024 flexor tendon surgery and could soon provide another experienced bullpen option. Brock Stewart is also progressing through his rehab process after shoulder surgery and offers swing-and-miss stuff that could help a relief corps looking for reliable late-inning arms.

Given the Dodgers' championship aspirations, they cannot afford to let struggling relievers work through extended rough patches in high-leverage situations. That doesn't mean giving up on Dreyer altogether, as the 26-year-old showed before his injury that he has the talent to be an effective Major League reliever. But the Dodgers may need to temporarily take him out of the spotlight.

An option to Triple-A would allow Dreyer to rebuild confidence, refine his command and prove that his shoulder is fully behind him without the pressure of Major League results. At the same time, it would give the Dodgers an opportunity to evaluate healthier alternatives. Right now, that feels like the obvious bullpen move to make before it's too late.

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