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Dodgers manager Dave Roberts opens up about Emmet Sheehan’s struggles vs. Phillies appeared first on ClutchPoints. Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Los Angeles Dodgers dropped a 10-7 offensive clash to the Philadelphia Phillies on Monday as Emmet Sheehan endured another uneven start. Manager Dave Roberts explained what he believes has prevented the right-hander from finding consistent success.
Sheehan allowed six runs while struggling to establish command. He fell behind seven of the first 11 batters he faced, surrendered a two-run home run to Trea Turner during a four-run second inning, and later gave up a solo shot to Brandon Marsh. The outing raised his ERA to 5.13 and continued a frustrating season after an encouraging 2025 campaign.
The right-hander remains just over a year removed from Tommy John surgery, and the Dodgers are searching for stability in their rotation. With Shohei Ohtani, Tyler Glasnow, and Blake Snell all unavailable, they have continued giving Sheehan opportunities despite his inconsistent results.
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In a feature published by The Athletic’s Fabian Ardaya after the loss, Roberts identified what he believes is keeping Sheehan from putting together complete outings.
“It’s just really trying to be convicted in his pitch making before he touches the stove. I think that when there’s damage or things have happened, then he locks in. (He) raises his level of intensity a little bit more. But it’s just got to be that before things start happening.”
Roberts focused less on mechanics than mindset and preparation. He believes Sheehan reaches a higher level only after adversity arrives instead of attacking hitters with the same urgency from the opening pitch.
L.A. heads into Tuesday’s second game of the series atop the National League West at 63-38, holding an 11.5-game lead over the Arizona Diamondbacks. That cushion gives the club room to remain patient, but Sheehan’s development could still influence how aggressively the club pursues rotation help before the August 3 trade deadline.
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