Dodgers News: Joe Kelly Returns from IL, Victor Gonzalez Optioned to AAA
Dodgers get another bit of reinforcement tonight in San Diego. The team announced that right-handed reliever Joe Kelly has been activated off the 10-day injured list and added to the active roster. In a corresponding move, reliever Victor Gonzalez was optioned to Triple-A Oklahoma City.
The Dodgers have activated Joe Kelly from the IL and optioned left hander Victor Gonzalez to AAA
— Dodgers Nation (@DodgersNation) August 25, 2021
Kelly hit the injured list early in August with an undisclosed injury — seemingly believed to be covid related. After a late start to his season as he recovered from an offseason shoulder operation, the 33-year-old has put together a solid campaign for the Dodgers. In 31 appearances, all in relief, Kelly has a 3.34 ERA with 35 strikeouts over 29.2 innings.
The option of Gonzalez is surprising but not shocking. The left-hander has struggled with command here in his second season as a big leaguer. Soon after the news hit, Dave Roberts called the option a “tough decision” with what Victor meant to the team in 2020. With the emergence of Alex Vesia, the Dodgers feel the can afford to have V-Gon work on his command for the stretch run.
The Dodgers send Walker Buehler to the mound tonight in San Diego against Blake Snell. First pitch is set for 7:10 PM.
NEXT: Clayton Kershaw Takes a ‘Big Step’ Towards Return
Kelly signed for how much? He has barely touched earning that paycheck.
Is he injury prone or is the club just manipulating the IL as usual.
a little of both. actually he was on covid watch. Hopefully he earns his paycheck between now and end of October!