{
  "id": 11091823,
  "title": "4 Dodgers Relievers Dave Roberts Can Trust Entering October",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/01/4-dodgers-relievers-dave-roberts-can-trust-entering-october",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-10-01T02:51:18.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Yahoo Sports",
    "slug": "yahoo-sports",
    "url": "https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/4-dodgers-relievers-dave-roberts-025118839.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The Los Angeles Dodgers boast one of the finest bullpens in Major League Baseball, with a few relievers showing strong signs as the postseason approaches. According to ERA metrics like FIP and xERA, the Dodgers' bullpen ranks in the top three throughout the season, and this trend is expected to continue as some pitchers transition to relief roles.\n\nRoki Sasaki stands out as a standout reliever, having made only three relief appearances after returning from the injured list. Despite his brief appearances, Sasaki was exceptional, allowing no runs, posting a -0.90 FIP, and striking out six batters. His fastball averaged 99.1 MPH, and his splitter and slider also performed well. Sasaki's postseason flexibility is a valuable asset for the team.\n\nEdwin Diaz, once a major disappointment, has transformed his season after dealing with neck inflammation. In his brief return, Diaz allowed only one hit over five innings, struck out nine batters, and walked just one. This performance has secured him a closer role for the postseason.\n\nEvan Phillips has quietly put together a solid season, particularly in the month of September. He has thrown 8.1 innings with a 2.16 ERA and a 2.50 FIP. Phillips' consistency and ability to handle middle relief or late-inning situations make him a valuable asset for manager Dave Roberts.\n\nAlex Vesia started the season strongly but struggled midseason. However, he closed out the year well, posting a 0.87 ERA and a 1.75 FIP over the final 10.1 innings. With his experience and excellent fastball movement, Vesia is poised to step in and help the Dodgers limit runs in critical situations.",
  "summary": "The Los Angeles Dodgers have one of the best bullpens in baseball, and in October, a handful of players are trending up.",
  "key_points": [
    "Roki Sasaki allowed no runs, -0.90 FIP, and struck out six batters in three relief appearances.",
    "Evan Phillips' consistency in September makes him valuable for manager Dave Roberts."
  ],
  "editors_take": "The Dodgers' bullpen depth, bolstered by strong performances from Roki Sasaki, Edwin Diaz, Evan Phillips, and Alex Vesia, gives manager Dave Roberts reliable options for the postseason.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}