Dodgers Injury Updates, Prospect Call-Up, and Series Recap Against the A’s
The Los Angeles Dodgers are facing some key injury challenges and roster changes this week while continuing their series against the Oakland Athletics. Here’s what Dodgers fans need to know, including updates on Roki Sasaki, Dalton Rushing’s call-up, and the Dodgers game schedule. If you’re wondering “What time is the Dodgers game today?” or looking for a Dodgers vs A’s prediction, this summary will help.
Roki Sasaki Placed on Injured List
Dodgers pitcher Roki Sasaki was recently placed on the injured list with a shoulder impingement. He describes the discomfort as limiting his shoulder movement, though not necessarily painful. The injury began affecting him around early May and has coincided with a drop in his fastball velocity, which has fallen below the triple digits he routinely hit in Japan.
Sasaki has struggled with command and velocity, posting a 4.72 ERA in his first eight starts. Manager Dave Roberts says the drop in velocity is partly due to mechanical adjustments and the shoulder issues. Sasaki is currently not throwing, and there is no indication he will receive a pain-relieving injection. The Dodgers will use bullpen games to cover his starts while he recovers.
Dalton Rushing Called Up, Austin Barnes Designated for Assignment
The Dodgers have promoted top catching prospect Dalton Rushing from Triple-A and designated veteran catcher Austin Barnes for assignment.
Rushing, a 2022 second-round pick, has performed strongly in the minors, batting .308 with a .938 OPS in Triple-A this season. He will serve as the Dodgers’ backup catcher behind Will Smith and is expected to benefit from exposure to the major league coaching staff and pitchers.
Austin Barnes, a two-time World Series champion with the Dodgers, leaves after 11 seasons with the team. While Barnes provided veteran leadership and solid defense in the past, his recent offensive struggles and declining throwing effectiveness contributed to the Dodgers’ decision.
Dodgers Game Yesterday and Today
In the Dodgers game yesterday, the team lost 11-1 to the Oakland Athletics at Dodger Stadium. The Athletics hit five home runs and had a strong offensive showing, led by Jacob Wilson, who went 4-for-5 with two homers and four RBIs.
What time is the Dodgers game today?
Tonight’s game is scheduled for 7:10 PM PT at Dodger Stadium as part of the ongoing series.
Starting pitchers for today’s game are:
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A’s: Gunnar Hoglund (1-0, 2.38 ERA in 3 starts)
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Dodgers: Yoshinobu Yamamoto (4-3, 1.80 ERA)
Dodgers Game Schedule and Outlook
The Dodgers currently have multiple pitchers on the injured list, including Sasaki, Blake Snell, and Tyler Glasnow, which has impacted their rotation depth. Clayton Kershaw is expected to return to the rotation soon, adding stability.
Manager Dave Roberts sees Sasaki’s IL stint as an opportunity for him to recover fully and work on mechanical adjustments necessary for success at the major league level.
Summary
The Dodgers are navigating a challenging stretch due to injuries and performance fluctuations. The promotion of Dalton Rushing injects fresh energy behind the plate, while the team hopes to regain pitching form as Clayton Kershaw returns and Sasaki recovers. Fans can expect a competitive atmosphere as the Dodgers work through these changes during their current series and upcoming games.