Dodgers' fireballer Klein struggles post-All-Star break; manager perplexed

Los Angeles Dodgers' hard-throwing right-hander Will Klein is experiencing a significant slump since the All-Star break, a downturn that has baffled even his manager. The 26-year-old pitcher surrendered 3 runs, one earned, over just 1.1 innings in the Dodgers' 4-9 home defeat to the Boston Red Sox on Friday.

Klein's struggles have been particularly evident in his control. Manager Dave Roberts pointed to persistent issues with command since the mid-summer classic. "Since the All-Star break, his control has been really poor, and his stuff hasn't been sharp enough today," Roberts stated after the game. The pitcher issued a walk and hit a batter during his brief outing, despite recording three strikeouts.

This recent performance starkly contrasts with Klein's earlier success. Before the All-Star break, he posted a respectable 2.41 ERA over 32 appearances. However, in the four games since, his ERA has ballooned to 14.54, having given up 9 runs (7 earned) in 4.1 innings. Roberts admitted uncertainty about the cause, considering factors like arm fatigue or mechanical issues, but noted that Klein's usually effective fastball was inconsistent, and his breaking pitches were particularly troublesome.

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Since the All-Star break, his control has been really poor, and his stuff hasn't been sharp enough today.