Add The California Post on Google Dodgers reliever Will Klein has been battling command problems for a few weeks now.
On Friday night against the Red Sox, it led to a frightening scene in the third inning at Dodger Stadium.
In an at-bat against Willson Contreras, the hard-throwing Klein lost control of two elevated 95 mph fastballs. The first one buzzed Contreras’ tower. The second drilled him straight in the back of the helmet.
As gasps echoed around the Chavez Ravine crowd, Contreras bent over at the plate and seemed dazed by the hit-by-pitch.
The veteran slugger did stay on his feet as coaches and trainers ran out to check on him.
Initially, he even stayed in the game, too, walking down to first base for the rest of the inning.
But in the bottom half of the frame, he was replaced at first base, making an early exit likely for further evaluation in the clubhouse.
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No information on Contreras’ status was immediately available.
Klein, a World Series hero for the Dodgers last year who has also battled command problems throughout his career, seemed remorseful about his misfire, walking slowly off the mound with a shake of his head. Dodgers catcher Eliezer Alfonzo also gave Contreras an apologetic tap as he walked up the base line. Contreras received an ovation from the stands as he reached first base.
That pitch would be the last of the night for Klein, who gave up three runs (two earned) in 1 ⅓ innings during the Dodgers’ planned bullpen game.
The right-hander has now allowed runs in six-straight appearances, and has issued multiple free bases (through either walks or hit batters) in four of his last five. His season ERA has climbed from 1.78 on June 2 to 3.89 following Friday’s outing.
