UPDATE: The Los Angeles Dodgers have taken a commanding 3-0 lead in the National League Championship Series (NLCS) following a decisive 3-1 victory over the Milwaukee Brewers at Dodger Stadium on October 12, 2023. This win marks the Dodgers’ impressive playoff record of 8-1, igniting hopes of a repeat World Series championship.
Dodgers closer Roki Sasaki showcased his resilience as the team navigates bullpen challenges. “Every time, I’m praying the starter will pitch a complete game,” he joked, highlighting the camaraderie and confidence building within the team. Sasaki’s lighthearted demeanor reflects the newfound stability in the bullpen under manager Dave Roberts.
In Game 3, the bullpen delivered a crucial performance, covering 3 1/3 innings after starter Tyler Glasnow was removed. Key contributions came from Alex Vesia and Blake Treinen, who secured vital outs before Sasaki closed the game, making him the first pitcher to record his first three career saves in the postseason.
Roberts expressed unwavering faith in his team, stating, “The thing about our guys is they’re battle tested. I’ve never lost faith in them.” This confidence is put to the test as two high-profile bullpen additions, Tanner Scott and Kirby Yates, are currently absent from the active roster.
Sasaki’s journey from starter to closer has been remarkable, especially considering his initial struggles in Game 1. After nearly blowing a two-run lead, he recalibrated his approach, focusing on his delivery. “Physically, there was no problem,” Sasaki noted. His first pitch in Game 3 clocked in at an impressive 99.7 mph, demonstrating his readiness for the postseason challenge.
The atmosphere at Dodger Stadium was electric, with fans erupting in chants of “Ro-ki” as Sasaki took the mound. His entrance to “Bailalo Rocky” has made him a fan favorite, a testament to his quick rise in popularity. “Since I came back as a reliever and started performing in a way that better represents who I am, I’ve seen the scenery gradually change,” Sasaki reflected, indicating his potential impact on the team’s future success.
As the Dodgers continue to outperform their opponents, the question looms: how dominant could they be with a fully functioning bullpen? With Sasaki closing games and reliable arms like Treinen and Vesia backing him up, the Dodgers could be on the brink of discovering their full potential.
Fans and analysts alike are eager to see if the Dodgers can maintain this momentum as they push toward the World Series. With the next game looming, all eyes will be on the team’s bullpen performance and Sasaki’s evolving role. Keep an eye on updates as the NLCS unfolds!