Three months have passed since the iconic major league debut by Carroll alumnus Ross Stripling, and despite some setbacks, the former Dragon has returned to the Dodgers' active roster to help in relief.
As we look toward Stripling's future in the majors, we reflect back on his season thus far.
Stripling debuted his major league career against the San Francisco Giants on April 8, pitching a no-hitter through 7 1/3 innings. He was removed from the game after 100 pitches. The move by new manager Dave Roberts was criticized heavily by fans and the media. The Giants went on to win the game, 3-2.
In his debut, Stripling struck out four and walked four. One of the walks scored off of the relief pitcher. Roberts said later that he wanted to protect the pitcher's long-term health, as he is two years removed from Tommy John surgery.
Stripling could have become the first pitcher since Bumpus Jones in 1892 to throw a no-hitter in his major league debut. He picked up his first major league win against the St. Louis Cardinals on May 13.
After seven weeks in the majors, Stripling was sent back down to the minors. The organization felt Stripling needed rest, as he still continues to recover from the 2014 surgery. Stripling was quoted in the Star-Telegram, "I’m just constantly losing it around the 75-pitch mark..."
The former Dragon was later placed on the minor league disabled list for lower body fatigue, but bounced back and was activated to the Dodgers' major league roster once again at the end of June to contribute in bullpen relief.
He is 2-3 after appearing in 9 games and starting 8. He's pitched a total of 45.2 innings and has given up 44 hits, 23 earned runs and 18 walks. His earned run average is 4.53. Stripling has struck out 34 batters.
Stripling graduated Carroll High School in 2008 and went on to play for Texas A&M University. He successfully pitched a no-hitter for the Aggies in 2012. He was drafted by the Dodgers later that year.