Dodgers: Four relievers that can fill Brandon Morrow’s place
By Jason Reed
4. Pat Neshek
Another great option in this free agent class is veteran sidearm throwing Pat Neshek. Unlike the other guys on this list, Neshek has been a middle-relief option for most of his career without any real experience of pitching in the ninth inning. As his career transpired and he got better he got deeper and deeper into games. But initially, Neshek was a guy you would throw in the fifth or sixth.
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It is also safe to say that Pat Neshek’s career has been a rollercoaster ride. After two strong seasons to begin his career, Neshek missed all of the 2009 season and returned in 2010 to a 5.00 ERA. It was not until 2012 when his numbers were good again, but he missed a good chunk of the season.
Then, in 2013, Neshek began his stretch of great pitching that has led him to this point. The 37-year-old reliever is likely entering his last real offseason of value, so he may look to finally join a contending team to make it to the World Series. He has been on playoff teams before, but with the Dodgers, he has the chance to finish his career with a bang.
While Neshek likely wouldn’t be set in stone as the setup guy every night, he provides a great bridge for the Dodgers regardless of the situation. Neshek had a 1.59 ERA last season with the Phillies and Rockies.
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Plus, Neshek has been one of the most reliable guys in baseball the last four seasons. Over that span, Neshek has made 268 appearances for three different teams; the 12th most in that span.