TL;DR - Scouting Report
Kirby Yates close to joining Dodgers' elite bullpen after a stellar 2024 season, solidifying their relief corps with a 1.17 ERA and dominant shutdown innings.
Start the Rally: Tweet This Now!The Los Angeles Dodgers are reportedly close to signing right-handed reliever Kirby Yates, according to Bob Nightengale of USA Today. While the details of the deal remain undisclosed, the move adds another high-impact arm to the Dodgers’ bullpen ahead of the 2024 season.
Yates, 37, is set to pitch through his age-38 season after an exceptional 2024 campaign. He posted a 1.17 ERA—the second-lowest among relievers in MLB—along with a 2.50 FIP and a 0.83 WHIP. He also ranked second in the league in Win Probability Added (WPA) among relievers, recording 39 shutdown innings and tying for fifth among MLB relief pitchers.
This signing follows the Dodgers’ recent acquisition of elite reliever Tanner Scott on a four-year deal. Most analysts believed the Dodgers had finalized their bullpen upgrades. But, Nightengale reported that Michael Kopech, one of the team’s key high-leverage arms, will be sidelined for at least a month into the season with forearm inflammation facilitating a replacement in his absence.
Yates is expected to step into Kopech’s role, providing a steady and experienced presence in the bullpen. While Kopech is known for his electric velocity and strikeout ability, Yates offers precise control and a knack for limiting hard contact, ensuring the Dodgers don’t miss a beat in high-pressure situations.
This move reflects the Dodgers’ commitment to maintaining a dominant bullpen, even in the face of early-season adversity. Yates’ 2024 numbers underscore his ability to thrive in critical moments, making him a valuable addition to the roster.
Further updates will be provided as details of Yates’ deal and Kopech’s status emerge. Stay tuned for more information on this developing story.
