Dodgers Rumors: Which pitcher should be cut from the starting rotation

2. Kenta Maeda

Chance of leaving the rotation: 25%

Kenta Maeda is currently on the DL for the Los Angeles Dodgers, but when he returns, there is going to be an overflow of starting pitchers. Landing on the DL on May 11th, Maeda has not seen any action since his near complete game shutout against the Pirates on May 10th. However, tonight Maeda is making his return, which makes this overflow relevant.

Maeda had a very, very rough April. After four games pitched Maeda’s ERA had ballooned up to an 8.05 mark, allowing no less than three runs per game and pitching no more than five innings. The extended workload of last season, which saw him lead the Dodgers in innings pitched, had seemingly caught up to Maeda. We saw the signs last postseason, and now, fans seemed to write Maeda off as a one year wonder.

However, that all changed after his April 28th game against the Phillies. I was present at this game, and I don’t want to brag, but I think I am Maeda’s good luck charm. Including that April 28th affair Maeda had tossed three games before landing on the DL, the Dodgers won all three as Maeda pitched to a 2.21 ERA.

If Maeda’s return also entails the return of his struggles, then it could be a big possibility that the Dodgers transition Maeda to the bullpen, allowing him to get back in the swing of things without overworking his arm.

Regardless, there certainly is a realistic possibility that Maeda may see time outside of the starting rotation, but the Dodgers should aim at keeping him over another arm.