For Buehler, next few weeks will determine October role

ANAHEIM -- After questions about what the Dodgers’ pitching staff could look like in October, manager Dave Roberts gives the same answer nearly every time.

“Performance will dictate everything,” Roberts is quick to say, including before Tuesday’s game against the Angels.

It’s a simple, but clear, message from Roberts. With a starting staff dealing with a multitude of injuries, the Dodgers don’t yet know who will be their Game 1 starter in the postseason, much less the rest of the starting rotation. That brings a lot of uncertainty, but also a lot of opportunity.

Walker Buehler is among those players with a big opportunity ahead of them heading into the last few weeks of the season. Buehler delivered his second consecutive encouraging start, allowing two runs over five strong frames in the Dodgers’ 6-2 win in 10 innings at Angel Stadium.

Buehler, once again, relied heavily on his curveball to get outs when needed. Outside of two solo homers, Buehler was in control of the Angels’ lineup, striking out six and walking just two.

After Buehler, the Dodgers’ bullpen combined to toss five scoreless innings. That allowed the Dodgers to buy time until their offense was able to strike. In the 10th inning, Mookie Betts delivered the dagger in front of a strong Dodgers contingency in the crowd, smashing a three-run homer off right-hander Roansy Contreras.