As Dodgers fans know, Thursday’s Spring Training game between the Dodgers and their division-rival San Francisco Giants at Scottsdale Stadium was postponed after 2.2 innings due to significant and steady rain. As such, it is not considered an official game, Spring Training or otherwise.

That being said, it was of monumental importance for Dodgers manager Dave Roberts, and even more so for 35-year-old Dodgers left-hander James Paxton.

Although not considered an official start for the Ladner, Canada native and fourth round draft pick in 2010 by the Seattle Mariners out of the University of Kentucky, it was his second start of the Spring. He faced five Giants batters over his 2.0 rain-soaked innings pitched, having made 43 pitches, which was probably very close to the pitch count that both he and Roberts were hoping for.

Paxton’s first start of the Spring was on February 29 against the Cincinatti Reds at Goodyear Ballpark. In that contest, the 10-year MLB veteran left-hander allowed one run on two hits, while walking none and striking out four in his 2.0 innings pitched.

Official or not, Paxton has now allowed one run on two hits, with two walks and seven strikeouts over his combined 4.0 Spring Training innings pitched thus far.

Worthy of note, during a recent interview, Roberts told reporters that Paxton will be in his starting rotation on Opening Day 2024 – rain or shine.

Play Ball!

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