Dodgers manager Roberts discusses not letting Snell continue pitching as Roki Sasaki nearly blew the game

In the NLCS opener on the 14th, the Los Angeles Dodgers defeated the Milwaukee Brewers 2-1 on the road thanks to ace Blake Snell’s 8 scoreless innings with 10 strikeouts. After the game, manager Dave Roberts spoke about the pitching change decision in the 9th inning.

Snell pitched a complete 8 innings, allowing only one hit, no walks, and striking out 10 batters while throwing 103 pitches, completely shutting down the Brewers’ offense. However, in the bottom of the 9th, the Dodgers brought in Roki Sasaki who nearly let the lead slip, giving up a run and creating a bases-loaded threat. Fortunately, Treinen managed to withstand the pressure and secured the win with a walk-off strikeout.

Roberts commented on Snell’s performance after the game, saying he noticed Snell’s excellent breaking ball command early in the first two innings and planned to let him pitch deep into the game. “I didn’t expect him to go as far as the 8th inning; he really pitched exceptionally well today.”

Regarding why Snell was not allowed to attempt a complete game in the 9th, Roberts explained, “It was a tough call. I thought there was about a 50% chance he could go back out, but considering Sasaki’s strong recent outings and our two-run lead, I felt it was a reasonable decision.”

However, Sasaki failed to maintain his previous dominance, issuing a walk and giving up a double, followed by a sacrifice fly that allowed a run to score. Roberts remarked, “He had three days of rest and was said to be in good physical condition, but his control was a bit shaky today.”

Regarding the bullpen nearly faltering in the 9th, Roberts remained calm, acknowledging how tough the Championship Series is. “I just want our pitchers to focus on throwing the ball where they should—that’s the most important thing.”

After the game, when asked if Sasaki’s subpar performance was related to the heavy workload he had in Game 4 of the NL Division Series against the Phillies, Roberts replied, “He’s had three days off, so fatigue shouldn’t be a factor. Although a few pitches today were below his usual standard, his overall stuff was still good. From what our coaches and trainers observed, stamina isn’t an issue.”