LOS ANGELES — The Dodgers’ starting rotation entering the postseason seems pretty set. The order isn’t finalized, but it should be some combo of Julio Urias, Clayton Kershaw, Tyler Anderson and Tony Gonsolin.
One name that is a question mark is Andrew Heaney. Although he’s made 14 starts this season, we’re unsure of what his role will look like just yet.
The plan for Heaney is to piggyback Julio Urias on Tuesday night. This will be his second straight game coming out of the bullpen. Last week in San Diego, Heaney came in to pitch innings two through five.
“Having him come out of the pen today makes us feel good about him doing that,” Dave Roberts said to the media. “It just gives us the options if we want to start him in a particular game or have him come out of the bullpen. It it going to be a short hit-and-run? Probably not. I see him taking down bulk when he does pitch.”
Although we still don’t know exactly what his role will be, this gives us a little clarity. Whether he’s starting or coming out of the bullpen, he’ll be pitching numerous innings as opposed to just one. I thought they might use him as a true reliever, but it sounds like they still want him to pitch a bulk number of innings, whenever that is needed.
Roberts said that Heaney approached them, showing his willingness to do whatever was asked of him and best for the team.
Chris Taylor update
Chris Taylor won’t play in Wednesday’s season finale. It will be his fifth straight missed game as he deals with a neck issue. According to Roberts, Taylor will resume baseball activities on Wednesday.
“This weekend will be pretty pivotal for him to get ready for the NLDS,” Roberts said.
With the NLDS set to kick off in exactly seven days, the clock is ticking for Taylor to return. Roberts said that there is wiggle room with Taylor, saying even if he isn’t 100 percent there’s still a chance he could be on the 26-man roster.
“If he feels that he can help us at some point in time, if he can contribute, he’ll be on there.” Roberts said.
Pitching updates
- Blake Treinen is going to throw to hitters on Wednesday. He’s still a possibility for the NLDS roster.
- Dustin May is going to throw two simulated innings on Wednesday.