Coming into this season, there was no question the Dodgers would be able to score runs. Their major flaw was in their pitching staff with both the starting rotation and the bullpen. Some of these questions have been addressed during the Dodgers’ fast start.
Jonathan Broxton is in his first full season as the Dodgers closer and though he has the skills, it was unclear how he would perform as the full-time closer. In past years, when he was slotted in to be the closer from time to time, he was inconsistent. So far into this young season, he has been as good as anybody could be. He has 4 saves and given up only one hit. He has yet to walk anybody. In these days, with such importance of the bullpen, there is much discussion that pitchers need defined roles. Perhaps previously as the set up man, he did not feel as secure as a closer. Now the role is defined for him as the closer and he is now dominating the opposition.
Ramon Troncoso is a middle reliever in the Dodgers bullpen. When thinking about how good a team is, you think starting pitching, offensive lineup, and defense. Even when thinking about the quality of the bullpen, you think closer and maybe set up man, but this guy is key. I see Troncoso eventually solidifying the set up role to Jonathan Broxton. He has been much better than expected as a middle reliever. He throws strikes and induces more ground balls than balls hit into the air. He will take full advantage of the good infield defense behind him.
Randy Wolf has performed better than expected so far this year. One major concern was the depth of the rotation and Wolf was seen as a stabilizing force. He will give you an ERA in the low to mid 4s and will keep the Dodgers in the game on a consistent basis. With a solid offense behind him, he can put together one of his highest win totals in his career.
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