The Los Angeles Dodgers' bullpen took another unexpected hit this week as left-handed reliever Alex Vesia landed on the injured list with a right oblique strain. It happened back in late August, retroactive to the 23rd, and just as the team seemed to be rounding into form for the postseason, this setback feels particularly frustrating. Vesia, who has been a reliable arm out of the 'pen since joining the Dodgers in 2021, felt tightness during a catch session in San Diego over the weekend before the official move.
Indeed, Vesia's absence comes at a tough time. The Dodgers clinched their spot in the National League Division Series with a solid win over the Reds on Wednesday, dispatching them to advance against the Phillies starting soon. But without Vesia, who's posted a 3.82 ERA this season over 61 appearances, the relief corps looks thinner. He struck out 78 batters in 56.1 innings, showing that nasty slider that's become his calling card. However, oblique issues like this can linger, and with the playoffs ramping up, manager Dave Roberts might have to shuffle things around more than he'd like.
Moreover, Vesia's journey to this point hasn't been straightforward. Drafted by the Marlins out of Cal State East Bay, he debuted in 2020 before landing with LA in a trade. His role evolved into high-leverage situations, appearing in 61 games this year alone, often closing out tight spots. Yet, the injury—diagnosed after he pushed through some discomfort—highlights the Dodgers' ongoing pitching woes, from starters to relievers. Teammates like Blake Treinen have had their own struggles earlier in the season, making Vesia's reliability all the more missed.
Recovery timelines for obliques vary, but reports suggest Vesia could return if things heal quickly, perhaps even for later rounds if the Dodgers advance. Still, the immediate focus shifts to the NLDS matchup, where every out counts. One wonders how this might reshape the team's strategy moving forward.