The Los Angeles Dodgers will get to add another arm to their bullpen soon. Right-handed reliever Michael Kopech will return as the additional pitcher when September arrives, according to Bill Plunkett of the Orange County Register. Kopech, who is rehabbing at Triple-A Oklahoma City, will be the tandem addition next week when the Dodgers roster expands to 28. Infielder-outfielder Hyeseong Kim will be the position player who rejoins the roster. The right-hander is eligible to come off the 60-day injured list today.
Michael Kopech to Return to Dodgers After Rosters Expand
Sounds like #Dodgers will make RHP Michael Kopech and IF Hyeseong Kim their additions when rosters expand to 28 next week. Both are on rehab assignments with OKC
Max Muncy could come off the IL next week as well. Took batting practice and did defensive drills on the field today— Bill Plunkett (@billplunkettocr) August 27, 2025
An Abbreviated Season
Kopech, who came over during last year’s trade deadline, has been battling injuries for most of 2025. He came out of spring training this year with a shoulder injury. Shortly after his return, Kopech landed on the IL again, this time with a sore knee. The extent of the injury was unknown until it was revealed that he had surgery to repair a torn meniscus. The injury most likely occurred when the hard-throwing hurler landed awkwardly after throwing a pitch.
A Season To Remember
After being acquired from the Chicago White Sox last year, the one-time starter came exclusively out of the bullpen for the Dodgers. Kopech quickly earned his way up manager Dave Roberts‘ trust tree. In his limited time in Dodger Blue, the right-hander had an ERA of 1.13. He became the designated closer heading into October. However, nearing the end of the postseason last year, Kopech seemed to struggle with his control. It was perhaps the consequences of the aching shoulder that kept him sidelined at the start of this season.
Undefined Role
It is unclear what role Kopech will have upon his return. However, if he is healthy and effective, he could be used in juxtaposition to closer Tanner Scott. Kopech would be a huge bonus to a bullpen that has logged more than its fair share of innings.
Main Photo Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
