The Los Angeles Dodgers made their first trade of the offseason last Sunday, sending left-handed pitcher Robinson Ortiz, who they had just added to the 40-man roster from Triple-A Oklahoma City, to the Seattle Mariners in exchange for 22-year-old right-hander Tyler Gough.
Gough joined Dodgers Nation’s Doug McKain for an interview and spoke about his reaction to the news of his trade.
“I was just kind of like, ‘Alright, here we go,'” Gough said. “It was unexpected because I felt like I had a pretty good relationship with the Mariners, but that’s just how the trade world goes.”
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Gough has played two years of professional baseball since the Mariners drafted him in 2022, making 10 appearances in 2023 and 23 starts in 2024.
In 2023, Gough pitched 30 innings, allowing 19 runs for a 5.70 ERA while striking out 24 batters.
The right-hander improved massively in 2024, logging a 4.33 ERA through 95.2 innings and striking out 99 batters. He also posted better WHIP and batting average against opponents, finishing the season with marks of 1.41 and .244 respectively.
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Gough missed the entirety of the 2025 season with injury, but looks to be back at some point in the 2026 season. Gough also spoke to McKain about working with the Dodgers while he recovers from Tommy John surgery.
“I’m excited, I’m stoked,” Gough said. “I’ve heard nothing but good things from the org. It’s going to be fun to pick their brains, see what their mindset’s at from a young pitching perspective.
“…Looking forward to it.”
Ortiz had been playing in the Dodgers’ organization since 2017, and made his way up to Triple-A in 2025. With the trade, the Dodgers freed up a spot on their 40-man roster, opening the opportunity to acquire players in the Rule 5 draft and sign free agents.
The Dodgers made a move for the future in acquiring Gough, and will hope he can continue to improve during his time with the organization.
Photo Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports
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