Despite leading the NL West with a 51-38 record, it has not been an easy year for the Dodgers.
An injury-plagued pitching rotation all over the mound, plus some key players - like Max Muncy and Chris Taylor - has held LA from reaching their truest potential this season.
One player that has struggled all year is LHP, Alex Vesia, who started the year 0-4 record and an ERA of 6.75 in his last 30 appearances for the Dodgers.
At one point, his struggles have sent to the Minors so he can clean up his slump. The move seemed to motivate him heavily as he has been picking up his slack since returning from the AAA.
His struggles were very noticeable, but for his Dodgers Teammate and All-Star Catcher, Will Smith, his hard work is recognizable as well.
“Confidence. I think he’s being accountable to being better, being consistent. And when he gets sent down to try to have a clear idea of what he wants to work on and get better at and each time he’s come back better. So, hopefully he continues to throw the baseball with conviction, with confidence and we get these same results. ... We put him in a tough spot (against Shohei Ohtani) and he got arguably the best hitter in baseball out. That was a big spot.”
Will Smith on biggest things that stand out with Alex Vesia since returning from AAA via SNLA Postgame
Vesia has allowed no runs in his previous three appearances, and has even struck out Angels Star, Shohei Ohtani, in one of the team's most crucial moments before the All-Star break.
“Each individual guy is constantly working on stuff. Take Vesia, he’s struggled this year. But his last couple of outings have been really good. Really promising. He’s a really good reliever and you expect what you’re seeing the last couple of times out of him.”
Will Smith - SNLA Postgame
The Dodgers return to the field this Friday, when they take on the New York Mets at Citi Field.
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