The Los Angeles Dodgers are facing a tough decision as they place right-handed pitcher Kirby Yates on the 15-day injured list, retroactive to September 21st, due to a right hamstring strain. This move aligns with the team’s recent action of reinstating Roki Sasaki from the disabled list—a decision reported earlier this week. Manager Dave Roberts shared the update with reporters, including Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic, ensuring the news reached fans across the league.
Yates, 38, signed a one-year, $13 million contract with the Dodgers ahead of the season. He had a standout 2024 campaign with the Rangers, posting a 1.17 ERA in 61 appearances. However, the Dodgers haven’t replicated that success in 2025. Yates was sidelined mid-May with a hamstring injury, missing three weeks, and later missed another three weeks in August due to lower back pain. This marks his third trip to the IL this season. During these absences, he has thrown 41 1/3 innings for the Dodgers, posting a 5.23 ERA. While his 29.2% strikeout rate is impressive, his struggles against power hitters—allowing nine home runs this year—have undermined his effectiveness.
But here’s where it gets controversial: many fans online argue this might be a 'phantom' IL stint, a strategic move to clear out the roster. Yet, the Dodgers’ bullpen is in disarray. Their relievers have a collective 5.69 ERA in September, ranking better than just four teams in the majors. With pitchers like Michael Kopech and Brock Stewart also on the IL, the club clearly doesn’t want to lose more arms, even those currently struggling.
The Dodgers still have a shot at winning the National League West, but catching the Phillies for a first-round bye seems unlikely. They’ll likely face the Wild Card round without Yates. If he recovers, he could return for the NLDS—but only if he proves he’s healthy and worthy of a roster spot by then.
Photo courtesy of Kiyoshi Mio, Imagn Images
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