In a playoff era where traditional starting pitchers often give way to the bullpen early, the Los Angeles Dodgers have found surprising success with bullpen-driven games in October. Although fans may miss the thrill of a dominant starter taking the mound, the Dodgers’ strategic use of relievers has given them a winning edge. Their innovative approach, combined with calculated pitching changes and advanced scouting, has made them a team to watch when it comes to leveraging bullpen depth.
Rise of Bullpen Games in Postseason Strategy
The concept of the “bullpen game” initially became popular as a solution for days when teams lacked enough healthy starters or simply needed to rotate fresh arms. But now, postseason bullpen games are a carefully crafted strategy, designed to disrupt batters with a series of pitchers who each bring something new. It’s no longer just a way to “make do”—it’s part of a sophisticated tactical approach.
With the extra rest days in the postseason, relievers get time to recharge between appearances, giving managers the flexibility to use them in short bursts without overworking arms. As a result, bullpen games are now strategically used in playoff games to limit opposing teams’ offensive threats.
The Dodgers have made this approach their own, entering the 2023 playoffs with a plan to use relievers for short stints and build on their strong bullpen depth. The team has implemented this tactic multiple times since 2019, and despite mixed success among MLB teams with bullpen games, the Dodgers have emerged as a leader in executing them successfully.
Key to Success: Depth and Pitch Variability
One factor contributing to the Dodgers’ bullpen game success is depth. Their relievers aren’t just numerous—they’re versatile and effective. In 2024, the Dodgers boasted one of the most well-rounded bullpens, with each reliever bringing distinct styles to the mound. This variability is a significant advantage, as it prevents opposing hitters from settling into a rhythm.
For instance, Michael Kopech is known for his powerful four-seam fastball paired with a slider that cuts in sharply. Blake Treinen adds a sinker and sweeper combination that has a lot of sideways movement, differing from Kopech’s approach. Ryan Brasier and Daniel Hudson each have unique slider techniques, and Brasier also mixes in a sinker. By constantly varying pitch types, speeds, and angles, the Dodgers’ bullpen forces opposing hitters to adjust continually, making consistent contact difficult.
How the Dodgers Compare with Other Teams
While the Dodgers have embraced bullpen games, other top teams haven’t leaned on this strategy to the same extent. The Houston Astros, for example, have used bullpen games just twice in their last ten postseason series, while teams like the Yankees, Braves, and Guardians have also avoided using them frequently. In contrast, the Dodgers have played nine bullpen games in the postseason since 2019, achieving a 67% win rate.
This remarkable success rate speaks to the team’s depth and flexibility. The Dodgers’ research and analytics staff have carefully constructed a bullpen that balances velocity, pitch movement, and control. Stats show that while teams in the regular season generally win about 50% of planned bullpen games, the Dodgers have a clear edge, even in high-pressure playoff games.
Breaking Down the Stats: Dodgers’ Edge in Pitching
Beyond depth, the Dodgers have invested in high-quality pitching metrics to maximize bullpen performance. They’ve been a leader in categories like “Stuff+,” which evaluates pitch velocity and movement, and “Location+,” which assesses a pitcher’s accuracy in hitting target zones. The Dodgers’ overall “Pitching+” score ranks among the highest in the league, thanks to their dedication to combining raw talent with precise control.
From 2020 to 2024, the Dodgers consistently led the league in “Pitching+” stats. This season, their relievers had an average “Stuff+” score of 107 and a “Location+” of 101, putting them among the best in combining pitch speed with accuracy. By evaluating each reliever based on these metrics, the Dodgers can identify which pitcher best fits specific in-game situations.
Defensive Positioning: The Unsung Advantage
The Dodgers’ success in bullpen games is also linked to their defensive positioning. Since 2015, they’ve led the league in defensive efficiency, particularly in positioning players to optimize fielding success. This year, the Dodgers ranked second-lowest in batting average on balls in play (BABIP), meaning they minimized hits from balls put into play, allowing their pitchers more flexibility.
Unlike other teams that focus heavily on big-name free agents, the Dodgers invest heavily in analytics and minor trade deals to continuously refresh their bullpen. This approach has enabled them to avoid long-term contracts that tie up finances, while still maintaining a strong lineup of relievers. The Dodgers’ defensive positioning also ensures that even if a reliever allows contact, it’s likely to be contained by strategically placed fielders.
Challenges of the Bullpen Game
While the Dodgers have succeeded with bullpen games, this strategy doesn’t guarantee a win. When the Oakland A’s tried a bullpen game in the 2018 wild-card game, it backfired, and similar attempts by other teams have seen mixed results. Not every team can match the Dodgers’ depth, analytics, and flexible pitching roster, making the bullpen game a high-risk approach for many.
Additionally, the Dodgers’ bullpen strategy isn’t just about the pitcher’s skill but also how each arm fits into the larger game plan. Los Angeles carefully considers pitch sequencing, defensive setups, and scouting data to fine-tune each bullpen appearance. This level of detail requires significant research and resources, which not every team has at its disposal.
Dodgers Set the Example for Future Bullpen Games
The Dodgers’ success with bullpen games showcases how analytics, pitcher depth, and defensive positioning can transform this strategy from a desperate measure into a powerful tool. With each new postseason, they continue to refine the approach, setting a standard for other teams looking to replicate their success. The mix of strong pitching metrics, varied pitch styles, and skilled defensive positioning has made the Dodgers a tough team to face in playoff bullpen games.
As other teams look to imitate the Dodgers, the future of bullpen games may see more organizations embracing this approach—especially those with deep pitching rosters and strong analytic departments. But for now, the Dodgers’ strategy remains a unique combination of talent, preparation, and strategic planning, positioning them as one of the most successful teams in deploying bullpen games in the playoffs.
