The Los Angeles Dodgers have announced their 2024 National League Championship Series (NLCS) roster, and it comes with some notable changes. Among the additions are pitcher Brent Honeywell Jr. and outfielder Kevin Kiermaier, while infielder Miguel Rojas and pitcher Alex Vesia have been left off the roster due to injuries. This article delves into the reasoning behind these roster changes and what they mean for the Dodgers' chances in the NLCS.
1. The Injuries That Led to Roster Changes
The primary reason for the roster changes is the injuries sustained by Miguel Rojas and Alex Vesia during the National League Division Series (NLDS). Miguel Rojas has been dealing with a torn left adductor muscle that he has been playing through for multiple months. The injury aggravated during the NLDS, causing him to miss the final two games of the series. Rojas is expected to require offseason surgery to fully correct the issue, and the Dodgers have a $5 million team option on his contract for the 2025 season, which can be bought out for $1 million, making him a free agent if not exercised.
Alex Vesia, on the other hand, left Game 5 of the NLDS with what the Dodgers initially deemed a cramp in his side. However, an MRI revealed an intercostal injury, which has made him unlikely to participate in the NLCS. Despite this, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts expressed optimism about Vesia's potential return if the team advances to the World Series.
2. The Additions: Brent Honeywell Jr. and Kevin Kiermaier
To replace Rojas and Vesia, the Dodgers have added pitcher Brent Honeywell Jr. and outfielder Kevin Kiermaier to their roster. Brent Honeywell Jr. was claimed off waivers from the Pittsburgh Pirates on July 13, 2024. He has a solid 2.63 ERA in 20 appearances this season and has shown the ability to throw multiple innings if needed, which is crucial for the Dodgers' bullpen strategy in the NLCS.
Kevin Kiermaier, acquired from the Toronto Blue Jays at the trade deadline, brings excellent defensive skills to the outfield. His addition is particularly significant given the Mets' lack of lefty arms, which could give the Dodgers an advantage in matchups.
3. The Impact on the Dodgers' Strategy
The roster changes reflect the Dodgers' strategy to manage their injuries and maintain a competitive edge. With Vesia out due to his intercostal injury, the Dodgers need an additional arm in the bullpen, especially with potential bullpen games looming in the NLCS. Honeywell's ability to throw multiple innings makes him an invaluable asset in this regard.
Similarly, Kiermaier's defensive prowess will be crucial in the outfield. The Mets do not have a strong lefty presence, and Kiermaier's skills could help the Dodgers navigate these matchups effectively.
4. Other Notable Roster Decisions
Another notable decision is the inclusion of Ben Casparius on the roster. Casparius replaced injured Michael Grove before Game 3 of the NLDS and has remained on the playoff roster despite not appearing in any games against the San Diego Padres.
Additionally, All-Star first baseman Freddie Freeman is in the Dodgers' lineup for Game 1, set to bat third. However, he has been hobbling with a sprained right ankle that limited him in the NLDS. Manager Dave Roberts expressed confidence in Freeman's ability to play every game but acknowledged that there might be defensive replacements if needed.
5. Conclusion
The Dodgers' roster changes for the NLCS reflect a careful balancing act between managing injuries and maintaining competitive strength. The additions of Brent Honeywell Jr. and Kevin Kiermaier are strategic moves aimed at bolstering the bullpen and outfield defense, respectively. As the team prepares to face the New York Mets in Game 1, these changes will undoubtedly play a significant role in determining their success in the series.
