The Los Angeles Dodgers reinstated Craig Kimbrel from the paternity list and optioned Mitch White to Triple-A Oklahoma City prior to Friday’s series opener against the San Francisco Giants.
Kimbrel returns after missing the maximum permitted three days while on paternity leave. That left the Dodgers without their closer against the Chicago White Sox, and prevented Kimbrel from having a reunion of sorts.
The right-hander has converted 11 of 12 save opportunities so far this season and is 0-2 with a 4.00 ERA. Kimbrel’s last appearance saw him take a loss against the New York Mets due to allowing a run in the 10th inning.
The multi-inning appearance was Kimbrel’s first of the season. Should he pitch against the Giants on Friday night, it will come with four days of rest.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts recently outlined a plan that guarantees Kimbrel will appear at least once every three games. The team and Kimbrel believes infrequent usage to begin the season played a part in some of his struggles.
Kimbrel is the active saves leader and is 17 away from becoming the seventh player in MLB history with at least 400.
Mitch White was running short on time
With Clayton Kershaw expected to be activated off the 15-day injured list this weekend, White appeared bound for the Minors at some point during the Giants series.
White threw five scoreless innings against the White Sox on Tuesday in what was his best outing of the season. He’s 1-1 with a 3.86 ERA over nine games (four starts) this year.
Getting an opportunity to make a string of starts in place of Kershaw allowed for White to generate some consistency and routine, which in turn led to encouraging results for the swingman.
Are you following Dodger Blue on Instagram? It’s the best way to see exclusive coverage from games and events, get your questions answered, and more!
