The Los Angeles Dodgers have had a starting pitching problem for a majority of the 2025 season after losing three of their staple starters in Blake Snell, Tyler Glasnow, and Roki Sasaki to injury.
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However, it appears the team has found a solution in the bullpen: Ben Casparius.
The rookie emerged as one of the most effective pitchers in the Dodgers bullpen this season. Casparius is sporting a 2.93 ERA and 1.00 WHIP as mainly a multi-inning reliever for the Dodgers, but the right-hander may transition to a familiar role in the coming weeks.
“He obviously came up as a starter,” Roberts said. “By way of need and where we were at, we felt that there was more value out of the ’pen and being kind of a versatile-type reliever. But where we are at now currently, he’s certainly showing that he’s one of five. I’m not sure of his next turn. But the next time he’s on the mound, it will be as a starter.”
Dodgers starters have given the second-fewest innings in Major League Baseball, and injuries have continued to plague the rotation. The latest departure of Tony Gonsolin, who became the 14th current pitcher to land on the IL, has opened up an opportunity for Casparius.
“I think that’s internally kind of figuring out how we get through this period before we get other guys back to health,” Roberts said. “What’s best for Ben, what’s best for our ballclub in this moment in time. Those are the conversations. He’s in for whatever is asked of him.”
The rookie prefers being a starter, and it’s the role he will assume until the Dodgers get starters like Snell, Glasnow, and Emmet Sheehan back in the rotation.
“Yeah, I think so,” Casparius said when asked his preference being a starter. “And obviously, I’ve been doing it for the majority of my professional career, so it’s something I’m comfortable with routine-wise. I’m just looking forward to what’s going on and what’s coming up next.”
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Photo Credit: David Frerker-Imagn Images
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