The Oakland Athletics’ closer Sean Doolittle has been battling a shoulder injury for most of the 2015 season. Unfortunately for the Athletics, his absence was detrimental to the bullpen. There was little leadership, undefined roles, and overall chaos when it came to the relief pitchers and the way they performed this season. Thankfully, after last night’s game against the Houston Astros, it seems as though Doolittle is back to his true form and will once again help the bullpen both with this closer ability and his leadership.
Even though Doolittle was activated from the disabled list a couple of weeks ago, he proved in his last outing that he is prepared and healthy to be the Athletics’ closer for 2016. Last night’s game was a nail biter with the Astros scoring three runs in the eighth inning and making it a one run game going into the ninth. As Doolittle warmed up for the final inning, fans were hoping that he would not repeat what the of the bullpen had done for the majority of the season – blow a one run lead.
Thankfully, Doolittle came with his best stuff on Monday. He had a successful 1-2-3 inning and achieved his first save of 2015. Even though his velocity was still on the slower side, he did elevate his pitches from 92 to 94 over the course of the ninth inning.
Many were worried about Doolittle’s ability when he initially returned from the DL. In his first two outings in August, he did not have any pressure to close during the game yet he gave up three runs and walked three over 1.2 innings pitched. Also, his velocity was only in the high 80s, which was an issue he had been struggling with throughout his rehab assignment. Luckily, as Doolittle eased back into his role, each relief outing was better than the last.
Doolittle’s return hopefully signifies more stability for the bullpen. He is a leader among the relievers and, with him assuming the closer role, it will help establish more defined pitching roles for each relief pitcher. Even though the relief staff may need to be bolstered during the offseason with some fresh arms, at least the Oakland Athletics can count on Doolittle anchoring the bullpen.
Even though he is still not 100%, the fact that Doolittle could go out in the ninth and earn a save was a big step for him. This will boost his confidence as well as show the fans that he can perform in high pressure situations. Now, Doolittle just needs to work on his velocity, and he will be all set for 2016.
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