Dodgers Option Struggling Starter to Triple-A

The Los Angeles Dodgers have optioned starting pitcher Bobby Miller to Triple-A Oklahoma City. In a corresponding move, they called up relief pitcher Ricky Vanasco. Miller was one of the Dodgers’ most consistent starting pitchers during his rookie season last year. In 2023, he sported a 3.76 ERA across 22 starts on the mound.

Dodgers Option Starter Bobby Miller to Triple-A

Miller Goes High to Low

Miller is most widely known as a 2020 first-round pick and a leading prospect. Coming into the 2o24 season, he was the third starter, following Tyler Glasnow and Yoshinobu Yamamoto. The Dodgers picked up both starters during the offseason. Miller started this season on a high note, striking out 11 St. Louis Cardinals. But unfortunately, following that successful start, things began to tumble for the 25-year-old. In his next start against the Chicago Cubs, he gave up five earned runs and was taken out in the second inning of the game. To make matters worse, he was diagnosed with a shoulder injury in his third start. Miller then found himself on the IL for two more months.

More on Bobby Miller

In late June, Miller came off the IL, but things didn’t improve. He was still giving up runs to low-ranked teams such as the Chicago White Sox and the Colorado Rockies. He has also struggled with giving up runs early in games. Even giving him time off didn’t allow him to pitch any better. He also struggled astronomically in his last start against the Philadelphia Phillies, surrendering nine runs across four innings. The continuous pattern with Miller has amounted to him not surviving long in games and being removed after giving up too many runs. For the season, he has an 8.07 ERA and 1.828 WHIP in 29 innings pitched.

Walks and strikeouts have also been an issue for Miller. Opponents have figured him out effortlessly and have successfully slashed against the youngster. Across 83 starts, they have slashed .338/.434/.620. This is not what the Dodgers had in mind with Miller, as he started his career so strong. His struggles were highlighted by his lack of velocity, and it looks like they may stem from his pitching mechanics. But he still has shown promise with his fastball, being known to pitch close to the 100 mph level. That puts him in position for a strong comeback once he returns. Some time in Triple-A could be just what he needs.