With the Dodgers trying to decide who will constitute the bridge to closer Kenley Jansen in the playoffs, one baby-faced candidate joined the team on Wednesday. The team promoted 23-year-old Walker Buehler, a first-round pick in 2015, and plan to audition him for a playoff roster spot.
Manager Dave Roberts indicated he would ease Buehler into major league action, hoping to allow the right-hander to debut in a low-leverage situation.
Buehler’s prominence could increase if he performs. Buehler started the season with Class-A Rancho Cucamonga and rose quickly.
“It’s funny, in talking to him, he’s very mindful of not trying to be too arrogant, but there’s a confidence, a swagger about him,” Roberts said before Wednesday’s series finale against the Arizona Diamondbacks.