The Los Angeles Dodgers claimed Cory Mazzoni off waivers from the Chicago Cubs and will option the right-handed pitcher to Triple-A Oklahoma City. Trayce Thompson was designated for assignment to create room for Mazzoni on the 40-man roster.
Mazzoni appeared in eight games for the Cubs this spring, allowing 12 runs (nine earned) in 8.2 innings pitched (9.35 ERA). He yielded a 2.08 WHIP in those appearances and allowed opponents to bat .375.
The former second-round draft pick of the New York Mets was claimed off waivers by the Cubs in November 2017. Mazzoni made his MLB debut with the San Diego Padres in 2015, and appeared in a combined 14 games during parts of that season and 2017.
Mazzoni has struggled in his brief Major League career, pitching to a 17.28 ERA and 2.94 WHIP. He went 1-0 with a 0.89 ERA in 14 games for Triple-A El Paso last season.
By designating Thomspon for assignment, the Dodgers now expose the versatile outfielder to waivers. He’s unlikely to go unclaimed, but if that does occur, the Dodgers could outright him to Triple-A Oklahoma City. It’s also plausible a trade could be consummated.
Thompson was competing with the likes of Kyle Farmer, Joc Pederson and Andrew Toles for the final spot on the Dodgers’ 25-man roster.
