Dodgers Shuffle Bullpen Ahead of Series Opener Against Diamondbacks

The Dodgers recalled Victor Gonzalez and sent down Bryan Hudson.

Tuesday, just before the Dodgers start a 2-game series against the Arizona Diamondbacks, they recalled LHP Victor González and sent down LHP Bryan Hudson.

The Dodgers want another effective left-handed reliever, and are hoping González can be that guy.

The Dodgers recalled LHP Victor González and optioned LHP Bryan Hudson.

— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) August 8, 2023

Both Caleb Ferguson and Alex Vesia have struggled recently, and the Dodgers didn't add a left-handed reliever at the deadline.

González hasn’t regained the dominance he displayed in the 2020 abbreviated season, including the World Series. He has dealt with arm problems.

This season, in 23 games pitching 23.2 innings, González has a 5.32 ERA with 22 strikeouts and 7 walks. The Dodgers hope something was unlocked during Gonzàlez’s most recent minor league stint.

Neither Ferguson nor Vesia has shown any dominance lately. Ferguson relieved Yency Almonte in Saturday’s eighth-inning debacle. He allowed 5 hits before he could end the inning. Using 40 pitches in the disaster, Ferguson probably isn’t available Tuesday.

Lately, Ferguson can’t get anyone out. His control has abandoned him, and his breaking pitch isn’t breaking. After having two Tommy John surgeries during Ferguson’s career, Dave Roberts likes to use him sparingly.

Vesia has had trouble adjusting to the pitch clock resulting in a couple of minor league stints. Vesia can be good with his rising fastball. Unless his fastball is at the top of the strike zone, Vesia gets hit hard. With its dry air and high altitude, Arizona is difficult to pitch in. Vesia needs to be perfect to succeed in Arizona.