Right-handed pitcher Michael Grove has been removed from the Los Angeles Dodgers’ NL Division Series roster against the San Diego Padres due to a shoulder injury and was replaced on Tuesday by right-hander Ben Casparius.
MLB medical director Dr. Gary Green confirmed the injury after looking over medical information, as stated by the commissioner’s office.
Grove faced two batters in the eighth inning during the Dodgers’ 10-2 loss in Game 2 on Sunday, giving up a home run to Xander Bogaerts and striking out Jake Cronenworth.
If the Dodgers make it to the NL Championship Series, Grove will not be able to pitch but could come back for the World Series.
“Shoulder thing he’s been dealing with for quite some time,” Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said. “Recovery is not good. We understand the cost of the next round, not being available. Michael’s extremely disappointed.”
The 27-year-old Grove had a record of 4-4 with a 5.12 ERA in two starts and 37 relief appearances this season.
Casparius, a 25-year-old rookie right-hander, made his major league debut on Aug. 31 and had a record of 2-0 with a 2.16 ERA in three relief appearances, striking out 12 batters and walking four in 8 1/3 innings.
