Los Angeles Dodgers Consider Reunion with Free Agent Michael Kopech
The Los Angeles Dodgers are reportedly exploring a potential reunion with right-handed pitcher Michael Kopech, who is currently a free agent. This move would not involve a trade, as Kopech became a free agent after the 2025 season, allowing the Dodgers to sign him directly for the 2026 campaign without giving up any players in return.
Strategic Addition to an Already Strong Bullpen
The primary motivation behind this potential signing is to bolster a bullpen that is already considered one of the strongest in Major League Baseball. By adding Kopech, the Dodgers aim to enhance their late-inning options, providing additional depth behind key relievers like Edwin Díaz and Tanner Scott. This strategy could give the team more flexibility in high-pressure situations, particularly in close games.
The expected contract is projected to be a short-term deal, likely around two years in length, with a total value estimated between $13 million and $14 million. This agreement would likely include an option year, offering both the team and player some security. Kopech is anticipated to work primarily in the late innings, possibly handling the eighth inning, but he also has the experience and capability to step in as a closer if needed.
Where Kopech Fits in the Current Bullpen Structure
The Dodgers' bullpen already features a well-established late-inning group:
- Edwin Díaz serves as the primary closer, handling ninth-inning duties.
- Tanner Scott is utilized in high-leverage spots based on matchups.
- Depth is provided by relievers such as Blake Treinen, Alex Vesia, Jack Dreyer, and Brock Stewart.
Michael Kopech would join the top tier of this group, sharing critical innings late in games. His addition would give the Dodgers multiple reliable options to finish games, reducing the workload on Díaz and Scott and potentially preventing overuse in back-to-back situations.
Why the Dodgers Are Targeting Kopech
The Dodgers' interest in Kopech is driven by his previous performance with the team and his overall skill set. During the 2024 season with Los Angeles, Kopech posted an impressive 1.13 ERA over 24 innings pitched, demonstrating his effectiveness in pressure situations. Although his 2025 overall ERA was 2.45, with a higher WHIP due to injuries, he maintained a strong strikeout rate of approximately 12 per nine innings, showcasing his ability to miss bats consistently.
Kopech relies on a powerful fastball, complemented by a cutter and slider, making him a formidable power arm. His experience includes closing games, with six saves in 2024, adding versatility to his profile. The Dodgers see him as a familiar player who has already succeeded in their system, which could ease his reintegration into the team.
Potential Impact and Considerations
Pros for the Dodgers:
- Enhanced depth in late innings, strengthening an already elite bullpen.
- A known commodity who has performed well for the team previously.
- Increased flexibility in managing close games and reducing reliever fatigue.
Cons for the Dodgers:
- Kopech's injury history raises concerns about his durability.
- Having too many late-inning options could lead to role confusion or reduced opportunities for other relievers.
- The financial investment might be allocated to other areas of need if Kopech underperforms.
For Michael Kopech, this deal represents an opportunity to return to a competitive team where he has already found success. If he remains healthy, he could rebuild his value and potentially secure more significant roles in the future. The contract would also offer him protection against further injury issues, providing stability.
Comparison with Key Bullpen Mates
A brief comparison highlights the strengths of Kopech relative to Díaz and Scott:
- Michael Kopech: Career ERA of 4.14, with a 2025 ERA of 2.45 and a strikeout rate near 12 per nine innings. His WHIP was 1.73 in 2025, though he showed dominance with the Dodgers in 2024.
- Edwin Díaz: A consistent closer with a career ERA of 1.92 and a 2025 ERA of 1.63, boasting a strikeout rate around 13 per nine innings and a WHIP near 0.90.
- Tanner Scott: With a career ERA of 2.90, he had a 2025 ERA of 4.74 but maintained a strikeout rate over 10 per nine innings and a WHIP of 1.26, showing effectiveness despite mixed results.
In summary, if Michael Kopech stays healthy, the Los Angeles Dodgers could significantly improve their bullpen, making it even more formidable for the 2026 season. If injuries persist, the move carries limited long-term risk due to the short-term nature of the contract. Ultimately, this decision hinges on balancing the potential for added depth against the concerns surrounding Kopech's health and performance consistency.
