Dodgers Prospect Landon Knack Focused On Mindset To Control Nerves In MLB Debut

The Los Angeles Dodgers turned to Landon Knack to make his MLB debut against the Washington Nationals with Bobby Miller on the 15-day injured list because of right shoulder inflammation.

Knack, who was a second-round pick in the 2020 MLB Draft, is the Dodgers’ No. 13 ranked prospect. He opened the season on the Dodgers roster for the Seoul Series, but did not end up pitching in a game.

As he took the mound for the first time, in front of his friends and family, Knack took a moment to reflect, but naturally had some nerves as well.

“I was excited but had a little nerves. Kind of back end of the inning started to calm down and after I got through the first inning, got back to doing things as normal and felt good after that,” he said.

The start wasn’t ideal for Knack as he allowed a leadoff homer to CJ Abrams. That was followed by two more singles, which led to another run on a sacrifice fly.

However, after that first inning, Knack pitched four consecutive scoreless innings as he settled into the outing and controlled his nerves.

“It was more just the mindset. It was slowing things down on myself, making sure I take my breaths and after that, everything came a lot smoother,” Knack explained of the turnaround.

He finished the outing by going five innings, allowing two runs on four hits with one walk and four strikeouts. Knack took the loss as the Dodgers’ offense was shut down by Jake Irvin and the Nationals, but overall was still happy with his debut.

“It was an amazing environment,” Knack said. “Obviously this is something you dream about from the time you’re little, so being getting to get out here, be in front of the fans at Dodger Stadium and actually get to experience this, it was amazing.

“Obviously, I would’ve liked a little better start than that. I didn’t set the tone as great as I would’ve liked to. Hopefully moving forward, we’ll set the tone a little better than that. But still overall a positive experience.”

Knack may not last very long in the Dodgers rotation with Walker Buehler expected back soon, but he made a positive first impression and should receive more opportunities throughout the season.

If the Dodgers decide to officially name a six-man rotation, Knack would seemingly have the inside edge on that spot until Miller returns. However, the club has been hesitant to name a six-man rotation, despite essentially using one with Ryan Yarbrough and bullpen games.

Landon Knack among trio of Dodgers to make MLB debut

Along with Knack, Andy Pages and Ricky Vanasco also made their MLB debut’s against the Nationals. Pages singled in his first at-bat, while Vanasco pitched two shutout innings.