The Los Angeles Dodgers designated Robbie Erlin for assignment and called up Ryan Pepiot, who started Wednesday’s series finale against the Pittsburgh Pirates for his MLB debut.
Pepiot had been on the taxi squad since the Dodgers arrived at PNC Park. They faced a need for a spot starter due to playing a doubleheader this past weekend against the Chicago Cubs.
Along with Pepiot, the Dodgers were considering Erlin and Andre Jackson. However, Erlin was effectively ruled out when he appeared out of the bullpen during Monday’s loss.
One of the top prospects in the Dodgers farm system, Pepiot has pitched well for Triple-A Oklahoma City this season. His success comes after struggling in OKC upon earning a promotion from Double-A Tulsa last year.
Pepiot’s strong start to the 2022 season earned him Pacific Coast League Pitcher of the Month honors for April. Across his five starts during that span, the right-hander went 2-0 with a 1.66 ERA.
Erlin’s time with Dodgers
The Dodgers called up Erlin as their 27th player for the doubleheader with the Cubs. He joined the organization this past offseason on a Minor League contract.
Erlin appeared in two games for L.A. and now has pitched at the Major League level over parts of eight seasons. Prior to this year, Erlin’s most recent action came in 2020 with the Atlanta Braves when he posted an 8.49 ERA, 6.75 FIP and 1.46 WHIP over 23.1 innings (seven games, five starts).
It’s possible Erlin remains with the Dodgers organization if he goes unclaimed on waivers. However, that would also entail the 31-year-old accepting a Minor League assignment rather than electing for free agency.
Justin Bruihl was optioned to Triple-A Oklahoma City on Sunday, which briefly extended Erlin’s stay with the Dodgers.
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