Kenta Maeda was the first starting pitcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers to pitch during the seventh inning since June 20, when injured ace Clayton Kershaw last pitched into the seventh inning.
That statistic is a great example of how important Kershaw is to the entire pitching rotation. It speaks volumes as well to how much the bullpen for the Dodgers has stepped up during his absence and helped the Dodgers to an 8-3 record since the star pitcher when on the disabled listed at the end of June.
The bullpen has been ready every time the call has come, regardless of how early the call comes.
This past week, the relievers for Los Angeles allowed only 6 earned runs across 36 innings of relief work. The group had 40 strikeouts while walking just 7.
Closer Kenley Jansen had three saves during last week and is now tied for second in saves in the majors at 27. Since his blown save on June 11 versus San Francisco, Jansen has thrown 14 1/3 innings without allowing a run giving up three hits and just two walks during that stretch.
The bullpen for Los Angeles displayed the ability to withstand great adversity and to succeed despite the most unexpected of circumstances.
For example, on July 4, the Dodgers bullpen was called into action early. They entered during the fourth inning with one out and the Dodgers losing 5-2.
Relievers pitched the final 17 outs against the tough Baltimore powering hitting lineup. Five relievers did the work with 5 2/3 innings of scoreless pitching giving up just a pair of Orioles hits.
In the process, the Dodgers rallied for a 7-5 win.
Of course, the Dodgers cannot wait to have their ace Kershaw back on the mound for their second half run to the playoffs. The southpaw is due back in another week and hopefully will not have any ill effects from his bad back.
Los Angeles enters the break for the All-Star game with a record of 51-40. The Dodgers are in second place in the NL West 6 ½ games behind the San Francisco Giants. However, they are 2 ½ games in front for the top spot in the NL wildcard race.
