The Los Angeles Dodgers recalled Dennis Santana and optioned Brock Stewart to Triple-A Oklahoma City as a corresponding roster move prior to Sunday’s series finale against the Colorado Rockies. Santana made his MLB debut at Coors Field last June.
He pitched 3.2 innings out of the bullpen, memorably hit a two-run double, and earned the win. Santana appeared in just two games with the Dodgers before suffering a season-ending shoulder injury while warming up for his first MLB start.
Though a starter by trade, the right-hander again is slotting into a role out of the bullpen. With the Dodgers seeking length from an eighth relief pitcher for their Opening Day roster, Santana and Brock Stewart were the final candidates.
Stewart earned the nod, and Santana was optioned to Oklahoma City. He was scheduled to start Monday’s game for the affiliate.
Instead, Santana joins a Dodgers bullpen that’s been inconsistent thus far and taxed over the first two games against the Rockies. Manager Dave Roberts used six relievers both Friday and Saturday.
Stewart was among those to appear in the series opener at Coors Field, which was another shaky performance. In three games this season, he’s allowed eight runs on nine hits (two home runs), amounting to an 18.00 ERA and 2.75 WHIP.
Initial perception had Stewart out of Minor League options this season, but a loophole gave the Dodgers a fourth year of being able to send him to and from Oklahoma City as they see fit.
