The Los Angeles Dodgers are getting healthier and stronger just in time for the stretch run of the season. On Monday, the team made several significant roster moves that could have a substantial impact going forward. Reliever Michael Kopech and utility player Hyeseong Kim were activated from the injured list. The Dodgers also brought back left-handed pitcher Andrew Heaney, who will be eligible for the postseason.
Kopech Returns to Strengthen Bullpen
For Dodger fans, this is exciting news. Kopech had been sidelined for two months with a knee injury. During his rehab with Triple-A Oklahoma City, he pitched in seven games, giving up seven runs in 5 1/3 innings. That stat line might not look amazing, but Kopech has already shown he can deliver in big league games. He threw seven scoreless innings earlier this season with the Dodgers. Getting him back gives the bullpen another option, which is huge since the Dodgers’ relievers have been up and down this year.
Kim also makes his return after missing over a month with left shoulder bursitis. The 26-year-old proved he could handle the bat during his rehab games, hitting .324 with nine runs scored and three RBIs. Before the injury, he was batting .304 for the Dodgers with two home runs and 15 RBIs in 58 games. He’s a versatile player who can play multiple positions in the infield and outfield, which makes him especially valuable. A player like Kim gives manager Dave Roberts more flexibility with the lineup and defense, which could be important heading into the final weeks.
Heaney Reunites with Dodgers
The third move was reuniting with Andrew Heaney, a 34-year-old veteran pitcher who was released by the Pirates. Heaney is no stranger to Dodger blue. He had a solid season with them in 2022, posting a 310 ERA across 16 appearances. He then went on to win a World Series with the Rangers the following year. Now, he’s back in L.A. and eligible for the playoffs since the deal was made before the deadline.
Heaney didn’t have the best numbers this season with Pittsburgh, posting a 5.39 ERA in 26 appearances. But he started the year strong with a 3.33 ERA before things went downhill. While it’s unclear exactly how the Dodgers will use him, he’ll likely pitch out of the bullpen rather than start. Considering how the Dodgers have been relying on a six-man rotation already, Heaney is probably more of a depth piece in case of injuries or to eat up innings when needed.
The Dodgers’ bullpen has thrown more innings than any other team in the majors this season. That shows both how much the bullpen has been used and how inconsistent it’s been. Adding Kopech and Heaney could give them a much-needed boost, but the big question is how reliable they’ll be in pressure situations.
Dodgers Positioning for October
As the Dodgers start their road trip to Pittsburgh, these moves signal that the team is preparing for October. With Kopech back to strengthen the bullpen, Kim returning as a strong hitter and defender, and Heaney offering veteran experience, the Dodgers are positioning themselves well to finish the season strong. Fans know the Dodgers are built for the playoffs, but it’s the little additions like these that could make the difference in a tight series.
At the end of the day, the Dodgers are one of the most talented teams in baseball. Now they’re finally starting to get healthier. If everyone can stay on the field and perform, Los Angeles will be a tough matchup for anyone come postseason time.
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