The Dodgers will not be going with Julio Urias to start Game 5 of the National League Division Series. After days building up to Julio taking the ball on normal rest, the team pivoted and chose to open with Corey Knebel.
That brought a lot of confusion and backlash from Dodgers fans online. It was obviously a surprising move and one that the club gave no indication of in the days prior. But the numbers are there to support the decision, and it does make a lot of sense.
But as it turns out, this was not just Dave Roberts’ decision. Starting Knebel over Julio came down to conversations in the front office as well as conversations with both of the players. Obviously. they were both very much on board.
All the way from the tippy-top of the organization on down. It was a decision we made together.
The hope from the Dodgers seems to be putting pressure on Gabe Kapler to make some decisions at the top of the lineup. It also potentially stops the Giants from stacking big right-handed hitters that they would if there was a lefty starting.
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But if Kapler still decides to go with the heavy right-handed contingent, that could also play into the Dodgers’ favor. Knebel matches up well against right-handed hitters, and Doc could potentially stack another righty reliever behind him if Kapler sticks with the lefty lineup.
Regardless, just remember it was not entirely Dave’s decision.
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