REPORT: Dodgers Get Positive Update on Michael Kopech Despite Surgery News

Another day, another blow to the Los Angeles’ Dodgers’ duct-taped pitching staff.

Reliever Michael Kopech underwent surgery to repair a torn meniscus in his troublesome right knee, Bill Plunkett of the Orange County Register reported Wednesday.

The 29-year-old right-hander, who last pitched on June 26, was subsequently transferred to the 60-day injured list, shelving him until at least the end of August.

While the news came as a surprise, Kopech could still return before the playoffs, barring any setbacks.

Michael Kopech Joins Long List of Dodgers on IL

Kopech missed more than two months to start the season because of a right shoulder impingement.

He returned June 8 to throw seven scoreless innings across eight appearances before landing back on the 15-day IL with right knee inflammation.

At the time, manager Dave Roberts suggested that Kopech’s stay on the IL would be brief.

He now joins a long list of Dodgers pitchers on the 60-day IL, including two-time Cy Young winner Blake Snell (shoulder), Roki Sasaki (shoulder), Tony Gonsolin (elbow) and Evan Phillips (elbow).

Tyler Glasnow returned from the 60-day IL on Wednesday to throw five strong innings in a 3-2, 10-inning loss to the Milwaukee Brewers. In a corresponding move, reliever Alexis Diaz was optioned back to Triple-A Oklahoma City, one day after being promoted.

Despite a six-game losing streak, the Dodgers maintain the best record in the National League at 56-38. They entered Thursday with a five-game lead over the San Francisco Giants atop the NL West.

How Does Michael Kopech’s Injury Affect Dodgers?

Kopech was a revelation out of the Dodgers’ bullpen in 2024, recording a 1.13 ERA and six saves in 24 innings after being acquired from the Chicago White Sox in a three-team deal at the trade deadline.

He also tossed nine innings in the playoffs, allowing three runs while striking out 10, as the Dodgers captured their first World Series title since 2020.

In January, the Dodgers avoided salary arbitration with Kopech by agreeing to a one-year, $5.2 million contract.

Kopech was projected to have a big role at the back of the Dodgers’ bullpen, alongside Phillips and free-agent additions Tanner Scott and Kirby Yates. But injuries have ravaged the staff, causing constant turnover.

Other pitchers currently on the 60-day IL include Brusdar Graterol, River Ryan, Gavin Stone and Blake Treinen.

Even with some pitchers returning, the Dodgers will presumably look for reinforcements before July 31 as they gear up for another run at a World Series. ESPN’s David Schoenfield recently suggested that Los Angeles could pursue a pitcher such as Seth Lugo to help provide depth.

 

Related Posts

Red Sox Keep Fueling Matt Shaw and Nico Hoerner Trade Rumors

IMAGE: Imagn Images The Red Sox made a move this offseason by signing veteran infielder Isiah Kiner-Falefa to a one-year, $6 million deal. But if that signing…

Rangers Finalize Deal With Veteran Pitcher Ahead Of Spring Training

IMAGE: Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Ryan Brasier (54) delivers a pitch against the Kansas City Royals during the first inning at Wrigley Field. / Kamil Krzaczynski /…

LIVERPOOL SEAL SUNDERLAND DEAL FOR LUTSHAREL GEERTRUIDA THIS MORNING — ON HIS WAY TO ANFIELD ! 😱

LIVERPOOL, Inglaterra – En un giro inesperado, Liverpool ha sellado un acuerdo con Sunderland para la incorporación de Lutsharel Geertruida, quien se encuentra en camino a Anfield. Este movimiento se produce en un momento crítico, con la fecha límite de transferencias a solo horas de distancia y los aficionados ansiosos por ver nuevas caras en […]

CONGRATULATIONS: Red Sox legend Dustin Pedroia has been elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame

CONGRATULATIONS: Red Sox legend Dustin Pedroia has been elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame The baseball world is celebrating as Dustin Pedroia, one of the most…

Jurgen Klopp called out for ‘naughty’ Liverpool comments that ‘didn’t help’ Slot

Jurgen Klopp’s comments about the Liverpool manager job have caused quite a stir

Braves News: Jeff Francoeur’s journey didn’t end on the field—it transformed in the broadcast booth. Now entering his 2026 campaign, “Frenchy” is being hailed as Skip Caray’s modern successor. The Natural has found a new way to define Braves baseball

Jeff Francoeur’s Quiet Transformation: From Atlanta’s “Frenchy” to the Braves’ Voice of Perspective in 2026 ATLANTA, GA — In the landscape of Georgia sports, few names trigger…