The Los Angeles Dodgers re-assigned Stevie Berman, Andy Burns and Elliot Soto to Minor League camp in their latest round of Spring Training roster cuts. None of the three non-roster invitees were with the team for the start of the Freeway Series.
The Dodgers are now down to two remaining exhibition games and an off day before needing to set their Opening Day roster. Manager Dave Roberts reiterated Sunday the club is only deciding on a final position player and relief pitcher.
Though, with Berman, Burns and Soto sent to Minor League camp, Zach McKinstry appears to have secured a spot on the Opening Day roster. That could change if the Dodgers make an unexpected trade or signing of a player — for instance a right-handed bat.
Berman was in camp with the Dodgers for a second consecutive spring. Berman appeared in eight Cactus League games, though largely to play the field as he logged only 13 plate appearances. Berman played for the Arizona League Dodgers, (former) High-A Rancho Cucamonga and Double-A Tulsa during the 2019 season.
The Dodgers signed Burns last December to a Minor League contract with a non-roster invitation to Spring Training. He was selected by the Toronto Blue Jays in the 11th round of the 2011 MLB Draft.
Burns appeared in 22 Cactus League games, collecting just two hits — both doubles — but drawing seven walks in 32 plate appearances. He played second base, third base, left field and right field throughout the spring.
The Dodgers also signed Soto to a Minor League contract with an invite to Spring Training during the offseason. He batted .292/.320/.375 with two doubles over 18 games, while playing second base and shortstop.
Waves of Dodgers roster cuts
The Dodgers cut players on four separate instances throughout Spring Training, with the first the largest group.
It consisted of pitchers Gerardo Carrillo, Andre Jackson, Edwin Uceta and Alex Vesia, along with catcher Keibert Ruiz, and outfielders Zach Reks and Luke Raley, getting optioned to Minor League camp.
Catcher Hunter Feduccia; pitchers Bobby Miller, Landon Knack, Michael Grove, Nolan Long, Jose Martinez, Robinson Ortiz, Ryan Pepiot, Gus Varland and Kendall Williams; infielders Jacob Amaya, Michael Busch, Kody Hoese, Miguel Vargas, Devin Mann, Leonel Valera and Omar Estevez; and outfielders James Outman, Andy Pages and Ryan Noda were all re-assigned on the same day.
The second round of roster cuts saw Garrett Cleavinger getting optioned, and James Pazos, Nick Robertson, Mike Kickham, Tim Federowicz, Matt Davidson and Rangel Ravelo re-assigned to Minor League camp.
Sheldon Neuse and DJ Peters were optioned on consecutive days last week.
Have you subscribed to the Dodger Blue YouTube channel? It’s the best way to watch player interviews, participate in our shows and giveaways, and more!
