Dodgers Sign Free Agent Reliever Drew Hutchison

The Dodgers signed right-handed reliever Drew Hutchison to a Minor League deal on Saturday. Hutchison had been designated for assignment by the Phillies on May 31. The 27-year old opted for free agency after passing through waivers unclaimed.

#Dodgers have signed pitcher Drew Hutchison to a minor league deal. Will likely make team debut tomorrow. Had spent season in Phillies bullpen until DFA on May 31. 92 career ML appearances, mostly with Toronto.

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— Alex Freedman (@azfreedman) June 16, 2018

The team debut Freedman is referring to is with the Dodgers’ Triple-A affiliate in Oklahoma City (for whom Freedman is a broadcaster).

Hutchison has spent parts of six seasons in the majors, mainly as a starter in Toronto with brief stints in Pittsburgh and Philidelphia. He owns a 4.92 career ERA and 0.5 WAR. He made 11 appearances this season before getting DFA’d by the Phillies. In his 21.1 innings pitched he recorded 19 K’s and 13 walks, giving up 11 earned runs.

Analysis

On a Richter scale of earth-shattering moves, this one probably fails to register. The deal is a Minor League contract, meaning Hutchison won’t be coming to LA, he’ll be heading to the Dodgers in Oklahoma City. It’s likely the front office sees some potential in the righty and is keeping him on reserve in OKC just in case the Dodgers’ pitching health continues to deteriorate.

So don’t look for the team’s latest free agent signing in the majors anytime soon. If he does make the big league club, let’s hope it’s for his abilities rather than replacing an injured reliever.