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.
