Following the loss of closer Kenley Jansen for a month due to an irregular heartbeat, the Dodgers could soon be forced to make a change much sooner than expected.
According to Andy McCullough of The Los Angeles Times, the Dodgers could now shift starting pitcher Kenta Maeda to the bullpen following his start on Friday night.
The uncertainty with Kenley Jansen should expedite Kenta Maeda's return to the bullpen after tonight's start. If Jansen misses a significant amount of time, the Dodgers can split saves between Maeda and Scott Alexander.
— Andy McCullough (@ByMcCullough) August 10, 2018
It would be a role similar to how the Dodgers used Maeda during the postseason last year. In 10.2 innings across the playoffs last year, the 30-year-old struck out 10 batters with a 0.66 WHIP and 0.84 ERA.
Maeda could eventually be moved into the closer’s role until Jansen is able to return. Given his success in the past, it would further allow Los Angeles to exercise extreme caution with Jansen and not need to rush him back.