Bullpen Targets
While Kenley Jansen is no doubt one of the premier closers in the game as his career best 1.17 ERA and 0.61 WHIP clearly imply, the Dodgers pen as a collective unit haven’t nearly been as sharp as Jansen. Owners of a 3.90 ERA as a pen, the Dodgers are definitely in the market for an upgrade, and with most of their frequently called upon relievers being predominantly right handed, a gifted lefty is an area of intrigue for the Dodgers.
In four games since returning from the DL, Brewers left handed reliever Will Smith has failed to allow a run in 3.2 innings pitched. Though a small sample size, Smith makes an intriguing option for a team in need of a bullpen arm. Smith has worked primarily out of the set-up role since returning from a leg injury. While it was originally expected that Smith would assume the closers role in Milwaukee before the injury, with Jansen in place already in Los Angeles, Smith would essentially be asked to perform the same tasks he has proved capable of doing albeit in limited appearances so far this year with the Brewers.
Another more notable left handed bullpen arm said to be available is the Yankee’s, Andrew Miller. Unfortunately for the Dodgers, it is believed that inner division and current NL West leader, San Francisco Giants have already expressed interest in.
Next: D-Backs Trade Deadline Preview
Since being called up at the beginning of April, left hander Adam Liberatore has performed admirably for the Dodgers in relief. It is however, yet to be seen how comfortable the Dodgers are going forward with someone with such limited experience as Liberatore has, as the teams most heavily relied upon lefty.