Why Justin Wrobleski is reminding Dodgers manager of Clayton Kershaw
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts compared pitcher Justin Wrobleski to Clayton Kershaw for his approach to pitching, emphasizing efficiency and getting outs through contact rather than strikeouts. Wrobleski delivered a six-inning, scoreless performance against the Cardinals, improving his record to 5-0 with a 0.59 ERA since joining the starting rotation. He credits Kershaw's mentorship and routine as major influences on his development and pitching philosophy.
- ▪Justin Wrobleski improved to 5-0 with a 0.59 ERA in his starts since being promoted from the bullpen.
- ▪Wrobleski recorded six scoreless innings without a strikeout in the Dodgers' 4-1 win over the Cardinals.
- ▪Dave Roberts praised Wrobleski for emulating Kershaw’s mindset of attacking hitters and prioritizing efficiency.
- ▪Wrobleski studied Kershaw’s pitch sequencing and daily routine to develop his own pitching blueprint.
- ▪Though Wrobleski previously averaged over 10 strikeouts per nine innings as a reliever, he now focuses on contact and consistency.
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MLB Why Justin Wrobleski is reminding Dodgers manager of Clayton Kershaw By Jack Harris Published May 4, 2026, 8:00 a.m. ET ST. LOUIS — No one is confusing Justin Wrobleski with a future first-ballot Hall of Famer. But on Sunday, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts evoked Clayton Kershaw’s name when describing the young lefty’s growth as a starting pitcher. “He’s got a great mentor in Clayton,” Roberts said. “And I think a lot of times, he’s channeling [Kershaw’s mindset] of, ‘Go at guys and make them put the ball in play.’” 3 Dodgers starting pitcher Justin Wrobleski enjoyed learning his craft from Dodgers legend Clayton Kershaw.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at California Post.