Reeling after three relief-related losses on this road trip and stuck without Kenley Jansen for at least two more weeks, the Dodgers shifted two starting pitchers into the bullpen on Sunday, with Kenta Maeda and Ross Stripling available as relievers this week.
Roberts sold the decision on Stripling and Maeda as a necessity. The bullpen was exposed this weekend against the Colorado Rockies with Jansen back in Los Angeles receiving treatment for his heart condition. The Dodgers entered Sunday with Arizona for the division lead, with Colorado lurking.
Jansen may not be available until September. If they hope to win the division, the Dodgers cannot afford many more nights like Friday and Saturday.