Michael Kopech Expected to Miss Beginning of Dodgers Season Due to Injury: Report
In the middle of all the hoopla surrounding the Los Angeles Dodgers’ signing of reliever Kirby Yates Tuesday morning came a bit of surprising injury news.
Read more: Dodgers Make Surpise Move, Sign All-Star Reliever Kirby Yates: Report
Reliever Michael Kopech is expected to “possibly” miss the first month of the Dodgers’ season due to an injury, according to a report from Bob Nightengale of USA Today Sports.
“The Dodgers, who will have a payroll exceeding $380 million, wanted more bullpen depth with reliever Michael Kopech expected to possibly miss the first month of the season,” Nightengale posted on X (formerly Twitter).
Kopech, acquired by the Dodgers at last year’s trade deadline as part of a three-team deal that also brought Tommy Edman to Los Angeles, was dominant down the stretch. He posted a 1.13 ERA over 24 innings, allowing just three earned runs.
Kopech recorded six saves with the Dodgers, in addition to the nine he secured with the White Sox before the trade, making him a potential closing option for 2025, his final season before free agency.
More news: What Does the Dodgers Bullpen Look Like With Tanner Scott, Kirby Yates Additions?
The hard-throwing right-hander had quite the journey in 2024 going from the league’s worst team, the White Sox, to winning a World Series with the Dodgers.
It’s amazing what a change of scenery can do for someone and his stats prove it.
Kopech made 43 appearances for the White Sox, finishing with a 2-8 record and a 4.74 ERA. He converted nine of 14 save opportunities, striking out 59 batters while issuing 24 walks.
After the trade, Kopech transformed into a dominant force on the mound.
In 24 appearances with the Dodgers during the regular season, he went 4-0 with a stellar 1.13 ERA. He also successfully converted all six of his save opportunities, striking out 29 batters and walking 10.
While Kopech didn’t have much postseason experience, he didn’t let that faze him. He appeared in 10 postseason games, finishing with a 1-0 record and a 3.00 ERA. Although he didn’t notch a save in the playoffs, he recorded three holds.
During the World Series, Kopech pitched 3.2 innings, giving up two runs on two hits. He played a crucial role in the Dodgers’ bullpen as they secured their eighth World Series title.
More news: Kenley Jansen Reveals He’s Open to Reunion With Dodgers in Free Agency
Photo Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images
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