LOS ANGELES – Just as the Dodgers' bullpen began to get healthier, the group hit another blow with the right oblique strain before defeating the Reds 6-3 on Tuesday night.
Fortunately for the Dodgers, Vesia and manager Dave Roberts both expect Il to meet Ill from three days to Saturday, which will be close to the lowest length.
“I don't think it should be too long,” Roberts said. “He's obviously our leverage guy over the past few years, so we have to make sure we get him right.”
In the corresponding move, left-handed Blake Snell recovered from the paternity test list. His next start is expected to come on Friday.
Vicia has not pitched since last Thursday. This problem broke out the first time he was playing a few days ago. He said it was the same as an injury that took him off last year's NL Championship Series lineup, but in a different position and less severe position.
“Just feel tight. There's no pull or grip or anything that makes me worry about,” Vicia said. “I think Doc, all of our training guys are on the same page, just make sure we're getting it out right now, make sure it doesn't get worse. There's no need to push it.”
Although Vesia has recently experienced a rough patch, giving up five runs (four gains) in four appearances from August 6 to 15, Southpaw has been the Dodgers’ most reliable lever arm due to a bullpen injury shock.
Vesia posted a 2.75 ERA in 59 appearances, second in Anthony Banda 61. Until Tuesday, he was the only high-rate arm that team hadn't missed any time due to injury.
The Dodgers strengthened the back end of the pen by recovering Tanner Scott (inflammation of left elbow) and Kirby Yates (pain in the lower back) from IL over the weekend. Michael Kopech (right knee resection) is eligible to get off in Wednesday's 60-day IL, but manager Dave Roberts said he is more likely to return after the roster expansion on September 1. Vesia's injury seems unlikely to change the schedule.
This season, Vicia is usually part of the ninth inning bridge rather than a weapon in the combination to end the game, although he did get four saves. In his absence, rookies Ben Casparius and Jack Dreyer may play Vesia’s outstanding firefighter roles.
As Los Angeles fight to protect its slim lead in the NL West, Vesia will eventually need to return to its best. In that sense, it may be beneficial to give him a few weeks off to make sure he feels healthy and fresh in the final playoffs.
“I think what's left is a good thing. But at the same time, that's not to say I'm going to have more rest,” Vicia said. “I've been fighting back and forth. But overall, I do believe it's the right decision.”