The Los Angeles Dodgers have an elite bullpen.
Phil Bickford, Brusdar Graterol, Craig Kimbrel, Chris Martin, Evan Phillips, David Price, and Alex Vesia are just some of the names ready to defend any leads the Dodgers may have in the late innings.
Even Tony Gonsolin, who was a Cy Young candidate before suffering an injury, will likely join the bullpen for the stretch run and the playoffs because the rotation is full.
But the bullpen of the NL West division champions has a secret weapon that may not be getting enough press, but could make a real difference in October.
Tommy Kahnle has about two weeks with the MLB team, yet he has already made an impact.
“Opponents are 1-for-19 against Tommy Kahnle since he returned this month. The one hit was that infield single in the ninth,” Dodger Insider tweeted.
Opponents are 1-for-19 against Tommy Kahnle since he returned this month. The one hit was that infield single in the ninth.
— Dodger Insider (@DodgerInsider) September 28, 2022
A Season Shortened By Injury
For the season as a whole, Kahnle has a 3.72 ERA in 9.2 innings, with three walks and 13 strikeouts.
When he is on (and healthy), the former member of the Chicago White Sox and New York Yankees can dominate with his high-90s fastball and deadly changeup.
Kahnle recently returned from a forearm strain that kept him sidelined since May.
The Dodgers knew they needed to be patient with him, because injuries like that could keep pitchers out of action for a while.
Team and player were diligent with his rehab, and now both are reaping the benefits of their patience and work.
Dominating like this, Kahnle should have a strong chance to make the playoff roster and have a prominent role in the Dodgers bullpen.
LA is looking like the team to beat in the postseason.
NEXT: Craig Kimbrel Comments On His Playoff Outlook