If you look up “pitcher” in the dictionary there should be a photo of a Dodger.
Even though the club is leading the National League West, their best pitchers — Clayton Kershaw, Scott Kazmir, Alex Wood and Hyun-Jin Ryu — are on the disabled list.
But the staff continues to produce. Last Sunday at Dodger Stadium was a prime example. Even with 11 pitchers on the disabled list, the Dodgers keep winning.
Brock Stewart, only 24 years old, pitched five scoreless innings and struck out eight batters in a 1-0 win over the baseball.
“We are here in Hollywood,” Stewart said. “Lots of things going on. It’s very special to go out there and compete..
“It feels good. This organization is loaded with pitching talent. I am just glad to be one of the guys helping.”
Manager Dave Roberts knows pitching and defense win games.
“I am excited for Brock,” said Roberts after the 1-0 win over the Cubs. “We believe in Brock. He did well against a very good ball club. Our young pitchers Julio (Urias), Ross Stripling, and Brock have been unwavering.
“Each guy is starting to blossom and grow. No soft landing for them. They keep exceeding our expectations.”
The Dodgers have found new team chemistry since the release of troubled outfielder Yasiel Puig. No question that Puig has tremendous talent. But attitude can overshadow talent.
When you talk to players, chemistry keeps coming up.
“This is fun to be a part of,” says center fielder Joc Pederson. “We are playing really well, but we have a long way to go. Our chemistry is really good. We just need to grind it out.”
After closing out a series in Colorado tomorrow at noon, the Dodgers open a six-game homestand against the Padres on Friday night followed by three with Arizona. They are the bottom two teams in the division.
Mr. Finley may be contacted at sfinley50@aol.com
