{
  "id": 9277559,
  "title": "Dodgers news: Dave Roberts breaks down closer vision with postseason looming",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/23/dodgers-news-dave-roberts-breaks-down-closer-vision-with-postseason",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-09-23T05:22:20.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Yahoo Sports",
    "slug": "yahoo-sports",
    "url": "https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/dodgers-news-dave-roberts-breaks-052220538.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "In a recent interview with SportsNet LA, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts discussed the team's bullpen situation as they prepare for the postseason. With only six games remaining, securing a bye into the NLDS seems highly achievable for the Los Angeles Dodgers. The inclusion of Shohei Ohtani in the starting lineup, on the verge of returning, further bolsters their chances.\n\nThe Dodgers have faced challenges late in games this season, notably with Edwin Diaz's struggles in his first year with the team. As a result, Roberts is considering unconventional approaches to managing the bullpen, including deploying Roki Sasaki, who recently returned from injury, in a closer role. Roberts emphasized that the decision to use Sasaki as the closer is an option they are keeping on the table, acknowledging that the highest-leverage innings may not always be in the ninth inning.\n\nRoberts reiterated that the Dodgers are open to experimenting with various bullpen configurations to maximize their chances of winning. Currently, there isn't a designated closer on the roster, and the team is willing to adjust as necessary to secure victory. Tanner Scott has been stepping up as the de facto closer this season, showcasing his skills despite signing a lucrative four-year, $72 million contract with the Dodgers in 2025.\n\nThe flexibility and adaptability of the Dodgers' roster, as demonstrated by their ability to utilize multiple pitchers in critical situations, contributes to their strong position in the competitive MLB playoff race.",
  "summary": "The Los Angeles Dodgers need to win two more games to secure their bye into the NLDS, and with six games remaining, that is a very doable task for LA — especially with Shohei Ohtani on the cusp of returning to the starting lineup. It’s not too early anymore to be thinking about potential playoff strategies, and manager Dave Roberts is certainly […] The post Dodgers news: Dave Roberts breaks down…",
  "key_points": [
    "Dodgers manager Dave Roberts discusses bullpen situation for postseason",
    "Shohei Ohtani's potential return strengthens Dodgers' chances",
    "Roki Sasaki considered as closer role option"
  ],
  "editors_take": "The Dodgers' willingness to experiment with unconventional bullpen configurations, including using Roki Sasaki as a closer, signals a shift towards a more flexible and adaptive approach to managing high-leverage innings.",
  "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."
}