In the midst of the battle for the lead in the National League West, the Dodgers made an adjustment to their pitching staff, reinstating veteran Chris Stratton and designating Ryan Loutos for assignment. It is a move aimed at strengthening the bullpen ahead of what promises to be a very competitive second half of the season.
With a record of 38 wins and 25 losses before the start of the series against the St. Louis Cardinals on Friday, the Los Angeles team leads the division by just two games over the San Diego Padres (35-26) and three over the San Francisco Giants (35-28).
The Los Angeles team announced the reinstatement of right-handed pitcher Chris Stratton to the active roster and to make room, the Dodgers designated right-hander Ryan Loutos for assignment in a subtle move that could have a high impact on the team’s lineup
Who is Chris Stratton?
Stratton, 34, originally signed a major league contract with the Dodgers on May 25. During his brief initial stint with the team, he made two relief appearances, pitching three innings and allowing two runs. He was designated for assignment on June 2, following the arrival of reliever Will Klein.
After clearing waivers without being claimed and rejecting a direct assignment to Triple-A, Stratton opted to become a free agent. However, just one day later, he decided to return to the DodgersStratton was selected in the first round of the 2012 draft by the San Francisco Giants and made his Major League debut on May 30, 2016. Over nine seasons, he has built a solid career as a reliever and occasional starter, playing for six teams: Giants, Angels, Pirates, Cardinals, Rangers, Royals and now, the Dodgers.
In 2023, Stratton was part of the World Series-winning team, the Texas Rangers, contributing with his work in the American League Championship Series and in the World Series.
To date, the veteran has a 41-27 record with a 4.63 ERA, 569 strikeouts and 16 saves in a decade-long career.
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Ryan Loutos made just two appearances this season. His most recent outing was last Wednesday, when he allowed three runs in the Dodgers‘ 6-1 loss to the New York Mets. Loutos joined the California franchise on May 1 as part of a trade with the St. Louis Cardinals
The move reflects the Dodgers’ strategic approach to maintaining the depth of their bullpen, which is key in a long and competitive season like the current one. As the team prepares for the second half of the schedule, every roster decision could prove crucial in the battle for the division title
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