Dodgers send struggling player back down for second time in August

The Los Angeles Dodgers have sent right-hander Emmet Sheehan back down to Triple-A for the second time this August. Sheehan struggled after his return to the major leagues, allowing five runs, including three home runs, in his last start against the Boston Red Sox. His ERA skyrocketed to 5.29 following the outing. Sheehan was recalled on Tuesday to serve as a long relief option for the bullpen, which is now well-rested after an off day on Thursday.

However, the Dodgers decided to send him back down to the minors to continue working on his performance. Paul Gervase was recalled in his place. Sheehan has shown promise, striking out eight in six and a third innings over two appearances this month. Given the struggles of the Dodgers' bullpen, another recall of Sheehan is possible, potentially including a role in October. His strikeout ability is not the issue; rather, limiting hard contact is what he must master.