The Los Angeles Dodgers made several roster adjustments as they prepare for a pivotal stretch leading into the postseason. The team activated right-handed pitcher Brusdar Graterol from the 15-day injured list and placed left-hander Anthony Banda on the injured list due to a broken left hand. Banda, having a solid year with a 3.23 ERA and a career-high 47 1/3 innings pitched, will be sidelined just as he was providing steady relief out of the bullpen.
Additionally, the Dodgers reinstated Japanese star pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto from the 60-day injured list to start tonight’s game against the Chicago Cubs. To make room for Yamamoto, the Dodgers designated left-handed reliever Nick Ramirez for assignment.
Cubs Beat Dodgers 6-3 in Yoshinobu Yamamoto – Shota Imanaga Matchup as LA Makes 3 Errors in 5-run 8th Inning, Seiya Suzuki Finishes 3 for 5 with a Run https://t.co/0n7ezSTWHW pic.twitter.com/W92nxQm6gN
— The Japan News (@The_Japan_News) September 11, 2024
Yamamoto, who has been out since mid-June with a rotator cuff strain, has had a promising season when healthy. Outside of a tough debut, the right-hander has pitched to a 2.34 ERA across 13 starts, striking out 28.1% of batters over 73 innings. With the Dodgers aiming for a deep playoff run, Yamamoto’s return comes at a crucial time, as he is expected to bolster the starting rotation in the coming weeks.
Meanwhile, Nick Ramirez finds himself off the roster for the second time this season. The 35-year-old was designated for assignment earlier this year to accommodate trade deadline moves but had rejoined the team from Triple-A Oklahoma City. His latest outing came last night, pitching two innings in a 10-4 loss, where he gave up three runs (one earned). Despite a standout season with the Yankees in 2022, where he posted a 2.66 ERA, Ramirez has struggled with consistency since joining the Dodgers, allowing 11 runs over 13 1/3 innings this season.
Ramirez is expected to clear waivers again and could choose to remain with the Dodgers organization as depth in Triple-A, although he could also opt for free agency. His future with the club remains uncertain as he approaches free agency in the offseason.
⚾️ Despite a strong return by Yoshinobu Yamamoto, the Dodgers’ defense falters, leading to a loss against the Cubs. 🏟️ #MLB #Dodgers #Cubs #BaseBall pic.twitter.com/z23PElsl9c
— PakPassion Sport (@PakPassionSport) September 11, 2024
As the Dodgers eye the postseason, these roster changes underscore their need to find the right mix of talent to sustain their success. Yamamoto’s return will be closely watched, as his form could be key to the Dodgers’ playoff hopes. Graterol’s activation also provides a much-needed boost to the bullpen, while Banda’s injury leaves a gap that the Dodgers will have to address as they move forward.
Key Points:
i. The Dodgers activated pitcher Brusdar Graterol from the injured list and placed Anthony Banda on the IL due to a broken hand.
ii. Star pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto returns from the 60-day IL after missing three months with a rotator cuff strain.
iii. Nick Ramirez was designated for assignment to make room for Yamamoto on the roster.
iv. Yamamoto, sporting a 2.34 ERA before his injury, could play a critical role in the Dodgers’ playoff rotation.
v. Ramirez’s future with the team is uncertain as he could elect free agency after clearing waivers.
Susan Guglielmo – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News
