Dodgers' World Series Bullpen Usage & Exposure Heading into Game 4

Los Angeles Dodgers' Bullpen Usage

After dropping Game 3 of the World Series to the Tampa Bay Rays, the Los Angeles Dodgers will turn to their bullpen in Game 4. The Dodgers' bullpen has been one of the best in baseball all season, but they have been taxed heavily in the postseason. In the first three games of the World Series, the Dodgers' bullpen has pitched 13 1/3 innings, allowing just two runs. However, the Dodgers' bullpen has also walked eight batters and hit three batters in the World Series. The Dodgers will need their bullpen to be at its best in Game 4 if they want to even the series.

Dodgers' Bullpen Exposure

The Dodgers' bullpen has been exposed in the World Series. The Dodgers' bullpen has allowed two runs in 13 1/3 innings, but they have also walked eight batters and hit three batters. The Dodgers' bullpen has been particularly vulnerable to the Rays' left-handed hitters. In the first three games of the World Series, the Rays' left-handed hitters have hit .333 with a .444 on-base percentage against the Dodgers' bullpen. The Dodgers will need to find a way to get their left-handed hitters out in Game 4 if they want to win.

Dodgers' Bullpen Options

The Dodgers have a number of options in their bullpen. Kenley Jansen is the Dodgers' closer, but he has not been at his best in the postseason. Jansen has allowed two runs in three innings in the World Series. Joe Kelly is another option for the Dodgers in the ninth inning. Kelly has allowed one run in three innings in the World Series. Pedro Baez is a right-handed reliever who has been effective against left-handed hitters. Baez has allowed one run in four innings in the World Series. The Dodgers also have a number of other relievers who could be used in Game 4, including Brusdar Graterol, Jake McGee, and Victor Gonzalez.

Dodgers' Bullpen Usage in Game 4

The Dodgers will need to make a decision on how they will use their bullpen in Game 4. The Dodgers could start Jansen in the ninth inning, but they could also use him in a different role. The Dodgers could also use Kelly or Baez in the ninth inning. The Dodgers will need to find a way to get their left-handed hitters out in Game 4, and they will need to use their bullpen effectively.