Will Klein forever etched his name in Los Angeles Dodgers’ lore with his extraordinary performance in Game 3 of 2025 World Series against the Toronto Blue Jays, and now the former fifth-round pick is hoping to ride that momentum into the 2026 season.
Klein found his way to the Dodgers last season in an innocuous June 2 trade with the Seattle Mariners and was shuttled between the Majors and Triple-A Oklahoma City multiple times during the regular season. He finished with a 2.35 ERA, 1.57 WHIP and 12.33 strikeouts per nine innings in 15.1 innings pitched.
The right-hander demonstrated the promise the Dodgers saw in him with an electric high-90s fastball complemented well by his curveball. But he also showed why the Mariners were willing to let him go, with 5.87 walks allowed per nine innings. Even then, it was an improvement over the 7.36 BB/9 he had in the Minors that season and his career mark of 6.85 BB/9.
As the Dodgers approach Spring Training and the 2026 season, Klein eagerly awaits his opportunity to get back on the mound and contribute in his first full season with the club.
“I’m excited. I mean, I think we should just start the season now,” he said. “The offseason has flown by, but I’m excited to get back out there with these guys and get the season rolling.”
Klein will likely need a strong showing in Spring Training to make the Opening Day roster because of a crowded bullpen. Either way, he’ll likely contribute at some point this year if the past few seasons are any indication.
Will Klein’s arm feels healthy after WS Game 3
While Klein delivered a performance for the ages during Game 3 of the World Series last year, it was also incredibly taxing. The 72 pitches he threw in that outing effectively knocked him out for the rest of the series, but he has fully recovered and is ready to go for the upcoming season.
“Oh yeah, I felt great. The next week I felt terrible, but now it feels great,” he said. “Yeah, I’m ready to go, I’m excited for the season, it’ll be a fun year.”
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