The Los Angeles Dodgers claimed right-handed pitcher J.T. Chargois off waivers from the Minnesota Twins on Friday, one day after he was placed on waivers. The 2012 second-round draft pick out of Rice University made 25 appearances at the big league level in 2016.
Chargois posted a 4.70 ERA, 3.36 FIP and 1.61 WHIP, while striking out 17 and walking 12 over 23 innings pitched in those games. Also in 2016, he went a combined 2-1 with 16 saves and a 1.35 ERA in 39 games for Triple-A Rochester and Double-A Chattanooga.
The 2017 season was an injury-plagued one for Chargois, as he made just two appearances with Rochester due to an elbow issue. He pitched 2.2 shutout innings, giving up a hit and a walk while striking out two.
One thing that has become apparent in recent years with the Dodgers front office is that they value depth on their pitching staff, and that is exactly what Chargois provides.
The organizational depth took a bit of a hit this winter with the departures of Yu Darvish, Brandon McCarthy, Scott Kazmir, Brandon Morrow and Tony Watson. Prior to claiming Chargois, the Dodgers made a flurry of Minor League signings this offseason to help fill that void.
Chargois has one option year remaining, and becomes the 64th player (33rd pitcher) the Dodgers have in camp this spring.
Julio Urias was transferred to the 60-day disabled list in order to create room for Chargois on the 40-man roster. Urias remains on the mend from last season’s shoulder surgery.
