While the Los Angeles Dodgers hoped Ross Stripling could be part of the solution for a struggling bullpen that was without Kenley Jansen, they’ve yet to see it manifest.
Stripling suffered from lower back inflammation that forced him to the 10-day disabled list between his start on Aug. 9 and expected availability out of the bullpen five days later. He said an MRI revealed compressed discs, but there was minimal concern.
Stripling added he was hopeful, if not expecting, to return after spending the minimum 10 days on the DL. That came and went over the weekend, but a simulated game left him on track to be activated for Tuesday’s series opener with the Texas Rangers.
However, that has now been pushed back, as Stripling is not yet fully recovered from the back trouble, according to Alanna Rizzo of SportsNet LA:
Stripling told me he won’t be activated today. Team still waiting until he’s 100%. Rosters expand Saturday. Could be then.
— Alanna Rizzo (@alannarizzo) August 28, 2018
The plan is for Stripling to throw a bullpen session at Globe Life Park on Wednesday, which would set up for a possible return this weekend — presumably Saturday at the earliest. That coincides with the first day active rosters expand to 40 players.
The need for Stripling in theory isn’t quite as pressing now as it was earlier in the month. Though, while Jansen has returned from being treated for an irregular heartbeat, he’s yet to look his usual self in three appearances.
Stripling this season is 8-3 with a 2.62 ERA, 3.10 FIP and 1.13 WHIP in 28 games (17 starts). He’s been dominant in 11 games out of the bullpen, pitching to a 0.59 ERA while collecting 17 strikeouts across 15.1 innings.
Though he’s succeeded in a role out of the bullpen, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts previously indicated the club has plans for Stripling to make a quick return to the starting rotation.
