The Los Angeles Dodgers went on to claim the World Series title even though they did not have a full starting rotation. Their front office then embarked on a massive spending spree during the offseason to add quality as well as quantity to their pitching staff.
However, the same old problems still linger for them, with almost a dozen pitchers currently on the IL. As a result, the Dodgers bullpen has registered the most innings in the major league thus far.
Alex Vesia Credits Offseason Workout Routine for Avoiding Lengthy Dodgers IL
Alex Vesia has been one of the key components of the Dodgers bullpen since he joined the team in 2021 and played a key role in their postseason success last year. As things stand, he leads the National League for the most appearances among pitchers.
Vesia recently expressed his pride at being able to stay healthy and be ready to play his part for the team when the manager calls for him. The 29-year-old right-hander credited his workout routine and preparation during the offseason for avoiding any injuries so far.
The Dodgers are currently in Phoenix, Arizona, for a four-game series against the Diamondbacks at Chase Field. On Friday afternoon, Vesia had an interview with SportsNet LA before the second clash of the series later in the evening.
“I pride myself on letting Doc know that I’m good to go, night after night,” he said regarding availability for the team. “I think it just comes down to my routine. I believe in it. I’m pretty detail-oriented, so the base goal is to be ready to go in any situation.”
“This year, compared to last year and the year before, I think I’m probably in my stride three weeks sooner. I think it has to do with the preparation I did in the offseason. I also had to deal with how quickly the offseason came and went.”
Alex Vesia chats with @kirsten_watson before the Dodgers' matchup with the Arizona Diamondbacks tonight. #LetsGoDodgers pic.twitter.com/7evvulWzQx
— SportsNet LA (@SportsNetLA) May 10, 2025
Vesia explained his offseason training routine during the interview. He said it was not the usual process that he goes through every year, but the program has, nevertheless, worked out surprisingly well for him.
“I couldn’t really do a super-heavy strength phase. It was more like resetting the body and going right back into a throwing program. I think that quick turnaround helps me, because in the years past, I had so much time. The ego’s like, “You’ve got to be super strong.” Then you come in too tight, and that’s bad.
“Also, I’m working on some super small ‘feel’ stuff. It’s been coming out really well. I like that I’m in the zone a lot more this year. I’ve been landing that slider, and the changeup has been decent to right-handers. So, it’s been good.”
Prior to the game against the D-backs on Friday night, Vesia had made 19 appearances in the MLB this year. He pitched 17.1 innings with 27 strikeouts and an ERA of 2.60, while giving up five earned runs from 12 hits, including three home runs.