Dodgers News: Dave Roberts Wants to Be Careful With Rookie Bobby Miller
Throwing six innings of dominant one-run ball, young flamethrower Bobby Miller was taken out of his start against the Brewers after just 74 pitches.
Understanding some fans' frustrations with the decision, Dodger skipper Dave Roberts explained his rationale for the choice to pull his starter who was dealing against Milwaukee.
“I’m going to be the first to tell you that there’s no exact science to it. But I do know that all innings, all pitches, all number of pitches aren’t created equal. And so the first time in the Major Leagues, with every pitch at a premium, there’s certainly more intensity. So I think for us to really talk through this situation with Bobby and appreciate that is important. And he’s right there in those conversations. But the No. 1 goal is for his health and to have plenty more left for October.”
Chavez Ravine enjoyed a dominant display from Miller on the night, but six innings was more than plenty to secure the win for the righty in what was arguably the best outing of his young career.
Keeping his starters' healthy has always been a priority for Dave Roberts, though fans could argue that the mismanagement of his bullpens have been the downfall for many playoff teams in the past.
It's a practice becoming more common as the game of baseball evolves and Miller's future with the team appears to be as a front line starter to come.
In the twilight of Clayton Kershaw's dominant career and with questions surrounding veterans Walker Buehler and Julio Urias in the summer, the long term plans to preserve Miller's arm for next year and beyond certainly makes sense.
Disagreement is sure to come up with Dave Roberts' practices, but truth be told, methods to such madness have been evident year in and year out.
The choice to pull Miller was no different and should prove beneficial for the team in the long run.
