Dodgers have a Craig Kimbrel problem that could haunt them

Following their 5-3 loss to the Cleveland Guardians on June 19, it is evident that the Los Angeles Dodgers have a Craig Kimbrel problem.

The Los Angeles Dodgers and Cleveland Guardians faced off on June 19 to take the three-game series, as they split the first two contests. Both teams were tied entering the ninth inning, and the Dodgers called upon relief pitcher Craig Kimbrel to keep the score intact.

That did not happen, as he surrendered two earned runs on three hits and walked two batters, leading to the Dodgers losing 5-3. With that, the Dodgers now have a problem when it comes to Kimbrel, especially when you look at his stats in his last 12 innings pitched.

Dodgers have a Craig Kimbrel problem

10 earned runs and 24 baserunners allowed in that span. That, and he picked up all three of his losses on the year during this stretch.

Even with the struggles that Kimbrel has faced as of late, manager Dave Roberts said that he is still the team’s closer.

This is certainly not ideal for the Dodgers, who moved on from Kenley Jansen this past offseason. Prior to the start of the season, the Dodgers acquired the veteran closer from the Chicago White Sox in exchange for outfielder AJ Pollock.

On the year now, Kimbrel has recorded a 4.71 ERA, a 1.57 WHIP, 33 strikeouts and 11 walks in 21.0 innings pitched.

There is still plenty of season for Kimbrel to break out of this slump. However, the Dodgers are going to be in a tough battle for first place in the NL West with the San Diego Padres and the San Francisco Giants. If things do not change soon, then the Dodgers may have to make a decision regarding Kimbrel.