SerpApi.Org
The Los Angeles Dodgers stuck to their plan for rookie left-hander Justin Wrobleski on Tuesday night, lifting him after 6 1/3innings and 89 pitches in a 2-1 win over the Philadelphia Phillies. The move came despite Wrobleski allowing just one run while striking out seven, as manager Dave Roberts prioritized the rookie's long-term workload.
Before the game, Roberts said the Dodgers were monitoring Wrobleski's innings after he surpassed his previous career high. The decision reflected Los Angeles' effort to keep one of its emerging starters healthy as the postseason race intensifies.
Through 6 1/3 innings, Wrobleski limited Philadelphia's lineup to one run while continuing one of the best stretches of his young career. The 26-year-old improved to 11-2 with a 2.62 ERA across 17 appearances (16 starts), adding seven strikeouts before turning the game over to the bullpen.
The outing also pushed Wrobleski beyond 106 innings this season, officially setting a new career high between the majors and minors. Roberts acknowledged before first pitch that the club would closely manage his workload, making the early hook expected rather than performance-related.
Earlier this month, Wrobleski also avoided the injured list after taking a comebacker off his right hamstring, allowing him to remain in the Dodgers' rotation. Tuesday's outing showed the club remains focused on preserving his health after a significant increase in innings.
The victory improved the Dodgers to 64-38, extending their lead atop the National League West. Meanwhile, the Phillies fell to 56-46, leaving them three games behind the Atlanta Braves in the NL East.
For Los Angeles, protecting Wrobleski has become as important as winning individual games. With several starters already sidelined, the Dodgers are counting on the rookie to remain a key part of the rotation heading into the stretch run.
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