Juan Ocampo/Los Angeles Dodgers
By Jon Weisman
Don Mattingly told reporters today that Mat Latos would pitch out of the bullpen during this roadtrip, with Alex Wood moving up to start Wednesday at Oakland.
Latos has allowed 21 baserunners while striking out eight in 14 2/3 innings since being acquired by the Dodgers. He pitched six innings of one-run ball in his Dodger debut August 2, but allowed 10 earned runs in 8 2/3 innings over his next two starts.
The move also could help ensure Zack Greinke and Clayton Kershaw both pitch in the series against the Giants at Dodger Stadium from August 31-September 2, though obviously that is still a couple weeks off.
mlblogscatlovesthedodgers
I still have my doubts about Latos as I’ve said before. Why do you suppose Mattingly skipped him?
Jon Weisman
Well, they don’t need a fifth starter with the off days this week, so it gives them an opportunity to get back to Greinke/Kershaw sooner.
mlblogscatlovesthedodgers
Ok Jon. I know you like Latos.
Jon Weisman
It has nothing to do with me liking or not liking Latos. It’s just not assuming a pitcher is toast based on two starts.