The Los Angeles Dodgers have dealt with a rash of injuries this season that have resulted in going prolonged stretches without the likes of Tyler Glasnow, Michael Kopech, Blake Snell and Blake Treinen, among others.
Kopech started the season on the 15-day injured list because of a right shoulder impingement that prevented him from making his 2025 debut until June 8. However, he was limited to just eight appearances before going back on the IL due to right knee inflammation.
When the Dodgers welcomed Glasnow back on Wednesday, one of their two corresponding roster moves was to transfer Kopech to the 60-day injured list.
According to Bill Plunkett of the Southern California News Group, that decision stemmed from Kopech having surgery for a torn meniscus in his right knee:
#Dodgers Michael Kopech had surgery to repair a torn meniscus in his right knee, per source. That’s why he was moved to 60-day IL. Still expected back before end of season
— Bill Plunkett (@billplunkettocr) July 9, 2025
At the time of being placed on the injured list, Kopech and Dodgers manager Dave Roberts downplayed concern over the issue.
Kopech stated he was pain-free and explained going on the IL was more of a precautionary decision to protect against further trouble and potentially compromising his mechanics. Kopech added he underwent an MRI that only showed inflammation, which was treated with a cortisone injection.
“I don’t know the incident that it happened, but getting the shot, hoping the pain, inflammation, is subdued,” Roberts added last month.
“Obviously, putting him on the IL was smart to get ahead of it. I don’t think it will be a long-term situation. He’s going to be able to keep his arm going, so that’s good. I think we’re all hopeful it will be on the shorter end.”
When will Michael Kopech return?
Kopech is not eligible to be activated until Wednesday, Aug. 27. Given the indication he’s expected to return this season, it stands to reason Kopech’s right knee surgery entailed trimming the meniscus and not a full blow repair that comes with a longer recovery period.
Kopech figures to be out anywhere from four to six weeks from the time of his operation. The date of his procedure is not publicly known.
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