The Los Angeles Dodgers relief corps has been among the best in baseball this season, led by a resurgent Kenley Jansen, Scott Alexander, Adam Kolarek, Caleb Ferguson and Dylan Floro, who each are coming out of the day off sporting ERAs under 1.55.
The success extends to players in their first year with the organization as well. Blake Treinen, Brusdar Graterol and Jake McGee all are in the midst of impressive campaigns, giving the Dodgers one of the deepest bullpens they have ever boasted.
The group is so talented that many capable arms have been forced to patiently wait for an opportunity at the Dodgers’ alternate site. One of those relievers was former All-Star closer AJ Ramos, who signed a Minor League contract with the team prior to Summer Camp.
Ramos, who didn’t earn a spot on the Opening Day roster, was said to be making progress at USC and waiting for a chance to contribute.
However, according to ESPN’s Jesse Rogers, Ramos requested to be released by the Dodgers and recently joined the Chicago Cubs:
The Cubs also picked up veteran reliever A.J. Ramos after he asked for his release from the Los Angeles Dodgers on Friday.
The Cubs, whose relievers have compiled a 5.42 ERA this season, hope Ramos can bolster their struggling bullpen. The right-hander last pitched for the New York Mets in 2018, going 2-2 with a 6.41 ERA, 5.19 FIP and 1.63 WHP over 19.2 innings pitched (28 appearances).
It was with the Marlins that Ramos enjoyed his most success. He was an All-Star in 2016, accumulating a 2.81 ERA and notching the only 40-save campaign of his career. Over parts of six seasons with Miami, Ramos posted a 2.78 ERA, 3.24 FIP and 1.23 WHIP with 99 saves in 325 games.
Dodgers waiting on Pedro Baez, Joe Kelly
While the Dodgers bullpen collectively has been stellar, that hasn’t applied to Pedro Baez and Joe Kelly, both of whom are currently on the 10-day injured list.
Despite initial hope they would each return in short order, that no longer is expected to be the case. Furthermore, Kelly is facing a five-game suspension upon being activated.
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