Alex Freedman reports that the Los Angeles Dodgers have signed a left-handed starting pitcher, Zach Logue, to a minor-league contract. Logue, designated for assignment by the Atlanta Braves, will pitch tonight at Triple-A Oklahoma City.
Dodgers Sign Veteran Southpaw To A Minor-League Contract
A Notable Piece In A Major Trade
The left-hander was drafted in the ninth round by the Toronto Blue Jays in 2017. He was sent to Oakland Athletics in exchange for Matt Chapman. Logue made his major-league debut with the Athletics in 2022, going 3-8 with an Earned Run Average over six over 31 appearances between Triple-A and the big leagues.
The Detroit Tigers claimed him off waivers at the end of 2022, and Logue made three appearances out of the bullpen. He had an ERA over seven, while his ERA at Triple-A Toledo wasn’t much better at 6.58 and a 3-10 record overall.
Showing Promise?
However, in December 2o23, Logue signed with the Atlanta Braves as a free agent. He has spent the year in the minor leagues, splitting time between Double-A Mississippi and Triple-A Gwinnett. The left-hander went 5-6 over 24 appearances, 12 of which were starts. Most importantly, his ERA was down to 2.56.
Where Does He Fit?
Los Angeles President of Baseball Operations Andrew Friedman likes to find diamonds in the rough. It is also no secret that the Dodgers value flexibility. Since Logue can serve as a starter and reliever, he gives the Dodgers depth in a year when they’ve had an unprecedented number of injuries to their pitching staff. Unfortunately, the latest casualty is left-handed reliever Anthony Banda, who is out with a broken hand. Manager Dave Roberts said that there is no timetable for Banda’s return.
In addition, Walker Buehler and Bobby Miller struggled to find their groove as they came off their injuries. Therefore, proving the point that you can never have enough pitching. Logue may discover a role sooner rather than later.
Main Photo Credits: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images