Impressions from Dodgers Intrasquad Games

Intrasquad games are all about veteran players getting in their work as they prepare for the regular season, with prospects and minor league journeymen trying to impress for the few spots available on the 2020 active roster, or taxi squad. For Dodgers fanatics in the eastern time zone, the games do not begin until 9:30 pm and are only viewable on Facebook. Nonetheless, it is Dodgers baseball — in fact, it is a double dose since both teams are wearing Dodgers blue, and you are rooting for both teams.

Here are some impressions of the Dodgers pitching staff from the 10 televised intrasquad games (alphabetically):

Starters

Walker Buehler – Behind other pitchers at the start of Summer Camp, but was dominant in first appearance Friday night, July 17.

During Friday’s intrasquad game, Buehler struck out Mookie Betts on an absolutely filthy curveball.
(Video capture courtesy of SportsNet LA)

Josiah Gray – Impressive pitching against quality Dodgers hitters. Team would have to move him to 40-man roster to pitch this season.

Clayton Kershaw – The ultimate professional; leading by example. Came to Summer Camp in great condition; the ultimate competitor tuning up for Opening Day.

Dustin May – Injured in Spring Training-1 so Dodgers were cautious with him in Summer Camp. Improved change-up and breaking pitch to complement his filthy fastball. Will help team this season as a starter, or reliever.

Ross Stripling – Making strong case for spot in starting rotation. New change-up is practically unhittable (Mookie Betts counseled him about tipping the pitch with runner at second base). Angels will regret backing out of trade for Stripling and Pederson.

Julio Urias – Has looked like top of rotation starter; three years after shoulder surgery he appears ready to reach his potential.

Alex Wood – Pitching like he did in 2017 when he was an All-Star. Free agency after this season could provide additional motivation.

Relievers

Caleb Ferguson – Pitching very well in Summer Camp with new cutter/slider and improved command.

Dylan Floro – Basically same pitcher we saw in 2019; leaves too many pitches in middle of plate.

Brusdar Graterol – Another young, power arm with great potential. Roberts said on Thursday he expects the 21-year-old to help the team this season

Kenley Jansen – Delayed start to Summer Camp, but has been impressive. Did not allow a baserunner in his two appearances.

Even though he arrived in camp late due to testing positive for COVID-19, Dodgers closer Kenley Jansen did not allow a baserunner in his two innings of intrasquad work.
(Video capture courtesy of SportsNet LA)

Joe Kelly – The enigma continues; world of talent with command that comes and goes.

Adam Kolarek – Still looks like a lefty-one-out-guy (LOOGY). With new three-batter minimum rule needs to develop confidence against right-handers.

Dennis Santana – A prospect who is close to earning a spot on the 30 man roster to start the season. Impressive velocity and movement on his pitches.

Josh Sborz – Looks much better than his debut in 2019. Dodgers giving him plenty of work in Summer Camp.

Blake Treinen – Pitching like he did as the All Star closer for the Oakland A’s

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Tomorrow – Impressions of Dodgers position players.

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5 Responses to “Impressions from Dodgers Intrasquad Games”

  1. Ron Cervenka says:

    Great insight, Jesse. Thanks!

    That Buehler curveball to Betts was NASTY!!!

    • Jesse Pearce says:

      Yes indeed; Buehler was ‘nasty’ in the very best meaning of the word. I thought Dustin May was very impressive last night. I am a big fan of Ross Stripling, but May could very well replace him in the rotation. One guy that really impressed me (my bad for failing to include) was 2019 fourth round pick Ryan Pepiot who appears to be a bull dog on the mound with fastball, command, and an awesome changeup.

  2. Wayne Riddle says:

    Pepiot. Hate it when these apps change words or spellings.

    • Jesse Pearce says:

      Let’s change his name to bull dog! I don’t think Hershiser would mind sharing that nickname.

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