The Los Angeles Dodgers made a change at backup catcher over the weekend by calling up Eliezer Alfonzo and sending Chuckie Robinson back to Triple-A Oklahoma City.
Robinson then was designated for assignment on Monday as the corresponding move to the Dodgers adding Carlos Duran to their 40-man roster. That was done despite Duran remaining in the Minors with the Comets.
Robinson again failed to make much of an impact in his brief time, which opened the door for Alfonzo.
Why the Dodgers added Eliezer Alfonzo to roster
Alfonzo joining the Dodgers represents his first time reaching the big league level. The 26-year-old made his MLB debut in the series finale against the San Diego Padres, which proved to be an even more emotional moment in the wake of Alfonzo learning his stepmother and younger sister died in the Venezuela earthquakes.
Robinson had been on the Dodgers roster since Will Smith was placed on the injured list June 11, seemingly receiving the nod over Alfonzo.
“It was just more of we didn’t know initially how long Will was going to be down,” manager Dave Roberts explained of the decision. “So the easy fix was Chuckie. Then as it became a little bit more extended, we just wanted to take this opportunity to put eyes on Eliezer.”
Alfonzo originally joined the Dodgers organization when he signed as a Minor League free agent on Nov. 17, 2025. Prior to that he spent eight seasons in the Detroit Tigers farm system.
“It’s a switch-hitter, a younger player, prospect-type guy we got as a Minor League free agent just to kind of see what he can do,” Roberts said of Alfonzo. He further noted given that Smith is going to remain out into the second half of the season, Alfonzo should receive semi-regular opportunities while backing up Dalton Rushing.
“It just gives Eliezer a little bit of runway and for us to put eyes on him. He’s had a good start so far, so we’re excited to get him up here,” Roberts said.
Alfonzo hit .313/.392/.422 with 15 doubles, one home run and 17 RBI over 49 games with the Comets before getting his contract selected by the Dodgers.
As for looking to enjoy his MLB experience amid enduring personal tragedy, the Venezuelan native is leaning on his wife and Miguel Rojas, among others.
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