Dodgers’ Struggles Continue in Game 4
After a successful strategy in an 18-inning Game 3, manager Dave Roberts faced criticism during a 6-2 defeat against the Blue Jays, which evened the World Series at 2-2.
The decision to pull starting pitcher Shohei Ohtani in the seventh inning, along with the use of two struggling relievers, raised eyebrows. Anthony Banda and Blake Treinen allowed inherited runners to score, turning a close 2-1 deficit into a more daunting five-run gap.
As noted by a popular Dodgers account online, it was puzzling that Roberts would bring in Treinen at such a critical juncture in the game.
The Dodgers’ bullpen, having pitched over 13 innings in Game 3, seemed to be feeling the effects. This likely limited Roberts’ options going into Game 4.
In the third inning, Toronto’s Vladimir Guerrero hit a two-run homer, putting the Blue Jays ahead. Although Ohtani was performing well, allowing just six hits and a walk through 93 pitches, he faced a challenging situation with left-handed batters coming up, prompting Roberts to turn to Banda.
Critics pointed out that Banda’s postseason was less than stellar, with a significant ERA and a rough performance in Game 1. Roberts later explained he was looking for a strikeout against three left-handed hitters and credited Ohtani for his solid effort.
Banda’s entry did not go as planned; he quickly allowed an RBI single to Jimenez, widening the lead. Roberts soon turned to Treinen after intentionally walking Guerrero, who himself had a rough postseason leading into this game.
Treinen, who has had his share of big moments, struggled under the pressure, conceding runs to Bo Bichette and Addison Berger, which effectively sealed the Dodgers’ fate.
A fan observed that the outcome was predictable when Treinen was brought in, highlighting the frustrations of those watching.
Looking ahead, the Dodgers will have Blake Snell on the mound for Game 5, facing Blue Jays rookie Trey Yesavage in a rematch. Snell had a challenging outing last game, and it raises questions about bullpen strategy moving forward, especially regarding Banda and Treinen’s roles after their poor performance.
