Dodgers Stabilize Late Innings With Sasaki, Yankees Bullpen Rebounds To Extend Playoff Series

The Los Angeles Dodgers have struggled with their bullpen throughout the season, notably in late innings with multiple blown saves and losses attributed to relievers despite strong performances from starters and offense. Roki Sasaki, recently moved from the starting rotation to the bullpen due to injury recovery, appears to be a promising solution, delivering perfect relief innings and showing effectiveness with his three-pitch mix. During the NL Wild Card Series, the Dodgers' offense and starting pitchers largely kept the bullpen out of high-pressure situations, although the bullpen still showed vulnerability by nearly squandering a large lead in Game 1. In contrast, the New York Yankees bullpen, which faced scrutiny after a Game 1 loss to the Red Sox, rebounded in Game 2 with strong, emotionally charged performances from relievers Fernando Cruz, Devin Williams, and David Bednar, helping secure a critical win to even the series. Both teams highlight the postseason importance of bullpen reliability, with the Dodgers seeking a cure for their ninth-inning woes and the Yankees demonstrating resilience and passion in high-stakes moments.