Alex Vesia and Miguel Rojas could be added to the Los Angeles Dodgers’ World Series roster, while Nestor Cortes is anticipated to be activated by the New York Yankees for Friday’s opening game. Dodgers first baseman Freddie Freeman is set to start after missing Games 4 and 6 of the NL Championship Series due to a sprained right ankle.
“I can’t say I feel significantly better than I did six days ago,” Freeman stated Thursday. “Running in cleats is a whole different challenge. It’s a sprained ankle, and it’s my first one, which they say is often the worst.”
Vesia was left off the NL Championship Series roster after injuring his intercostal muscles while warming up for Game 5 against San Diego on October 11. Rojas hasn’t played since Game 3 against the Padres on October 8 due to an adductor injury.
Brusdar Graterol, who has been sidelined since September 24 with shoulder inflammation, is also aiming to return. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts commented, “Everyone is moving in the right direction. We’ll have some tough decisions ahead, but that’s a positive sign. Alex threw 15 pitches in a sim game yesterday and looked good. Graterol has been throwing as well, so we’re in a decent spot with our pitching.”
Graterol made three scoreless appearances in the 2020 World Series against Tampa Bay, but he played only seven games this season. The Dodgers plan to carry 13 pitchers and 13 position players. Roberts noted that Graterol’s month off will factor into their decisions.
“It’s part of the calculations. His postseason track record and how he handles pressure are also considerations. We trust in both him and his abilities,” Roberts said, expressing optimism about Rojas’ recovery.
“Yesterday he completed the entire workout: running well, taking at-bats, and fielding grounders. Everything looks promising, so there’s a strong chance he’ll make the roster,” the manager added.
Cortes hasn’t pitched since September 18 due to a flexor strain in his elbow and threw two innings of batting practice at Yankee Stadium on Tuesday. Yankees manager Aaron Boone may also opt for 13 pitchers in his 26-man roster. “I want to see how Nestor does today before making any decisions,” he said.
Leave a Reply