The Dodgers have officially severed ties with yet another veteran starter, a move that is already sparking controversy among fans and analysts. With the team’s pitching depth stretched thin due to injuries and underperformance, cutting a seasoned player raises questions about the direction of the rotation as they head toward the postseason.
This decision could trigger a strong backlash, as some fans are likely to question whether this is the right time to part with a veteran presence, especially with a shaky rotation. The Dodgers’ front office will have to manage the fallout from this move as they weigh their options heading into a critical stretch of the season
However, his postseason debut left a bitter taste. Miller started Game 2 of the NLDS against the Arizona Diamondbacks, allowing three runs in just 52 pitches and failing to make it out of the second inning.
Despite the rough postseason outing, Miller was expected to be a key part of the Dodgers’ rotation in 2024.
His first start of the season, in the Dodgers’ home opener against the St. Louis Cardinals, seemed to affirm those expectations. Miller dominated, throwing six scoreless innings and setting a career-high with 11 strikeouts.
It was the finest performance of his young career, and fans anticipated a breakout season. However, things took a sharp turn. In his next six starts, Miller posted a disastrous 10.17 ERA, allowing an OPS of 1.078 to opposing hitters. His struggles culminated in a demotion to the minors on July 10.
Miller rejoined the team on August 8, but his struggles continued. Leading into Tuesday’s game against the Miami Marlins, his ERA in his last five starts was over eight. In his latest outing, Miller lasted just two innings, surrendering four runs on seven hits. The Dodgers went on to lose the game 11-9.
Miller’s season ERA now sits at 8.52, the worst in baseball among pitchers with at least 50 innings, according to FanGraphs.
As the postseason looms, the Dodgers face a difficult decision: can they afford to include Miller on the playoff roster? Injuries to their pitching staff may force their hand, despite his ongoing struggles.
Manager Dave Roberts has not committed to whether Miller will make another start this season.
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