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Dave Roberts Raves About Surprising Breakout Dodgers Pitcher

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By TJ French | Last updated Apr 16, 2025 9:50 AM ET

Even with several key pitchers dealing with injuries to start the season, the Los Angeles Dodgers are off to a strong 13-6 start.

Blake Snell, one of their significant offseason additions, has been sidelined with a shoulder issue. Michael Kopech and Evan Phillips—both expected to play major roles in the bullpen—have also spent the early part of 2025 on the injured list.

However, this has led to unfamiliar faces getting opportunities to pitch meaningful innings. Following the win over the Colorado Rockies on Tuesday night, manager Dave Roberts revealed that he has been especially impressed with southpaw Jack Dreyer.

Via Doug McKain of Dodgers Nation, Roberts said:

He just seems unflappable. He's an intellect. Very well read. He's very calm. He studies. Guys love him, and there's no situation that's too big for him. He's got good stuff and he's been really helpful.

Dreyer made his MLB debut in the Dodgers Tokyo Series and has been a part of the big league team ever since. In 12 innings this season, the 26-year-old lefty has just a 0.75 ERA, a 1.60 FIP, and 16 strikeouts.

He has already recorded eight appearances on the season, and as Roberts alluded to, no situation seems to be too big for him so far. It will be interesting to see if the Dodgers' skipper gives him more opportunities in higher-leverage spots.

It's unclear how long the Dodgers will stick with Dreyer and who will be the relievers to depart for Triple-A when Phillips and Kopech return.

Other names that have seen some unlikely mound time are Ben Casparius and Landon Knack. Knack has received a few spot starts but hasn't performed that well, and Casparius has had some ups and downs in the young season.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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