The Los Angeles Dodgers reinstated Pedro Baez from the 10-day injured list and optioned Dennis Santana to their alternate training site at USC prior to Saturday’s series opener against the Houston Astros.
Adding a fresh arm to the active roster comes at a particularly opportune time as the Dodgers are expecting to use a bullpen game Sunday.
Baez had been sidelined since Aug. 20 due to a right groin strain. He attributed the injury to twice needing to quarantine because of coming into contact with a teammate who tested positive for coronavirus (COVID-19).
At the beginning of the month, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts indicated Baez — along with Joe Kelly — still was far off from returning. Each was activated this week, though Kelly continues to serve a five-game suspension. Both relief pitchers went through a steady progression of throwing bullpen sessions and facing batters in multiple simulated games.
Baez appeared in 11 games before landing on the IL, pitching to a 3.97 ERA and 1.06 WHIP. His velocity was done, which Roberts ultimately surmised may have been related to the groin injury Baez suffered.
After Saturday, the Dodgers have just 14 games remaining in the regular season. Roberts nonetheless is confident Baez and Kelly will have ample opportunities to pitch and prepare for the postseason.
Santana has appeared in 12 games this year, going 1-2 with a 5.29 ERA and 18 strikeouts. He made the Opening Day roster for the first time in his career.
Dustin May avoided serious injury
In addition to welcoming Baez back, the Dodgers also received positive news on the Dustin May front. A CT scan of his left foot showed only a contusion, and he’s considered day-to-day. Max was struck by a comebacker from the first batter he faced Thursday.
An X-ray taken at Chase Field was inconclusive, which prompted the Dodgers to have their rookie undergo additional testing upon returning from their road trip. May said swelling had already begun subsiding a day after receiving treatment.
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