The Los Angeles Dodgers are using the Injured List early this season. They are placing right-handed reliever Ben Casparius on the I.L. with shoulder inflammation and recalling Kyle Hurt from Triple-A Oklahoma City to take his place, according to Fabian Ardaya of the Athletic. The timeline for Casparius’ return is not yet known. This is probably the first of many moves to reinforce the bullpen in 2026.
Ben Casparius to the IL. Right shoulder inflammation. https://t.co/POeE2mERTA
— Fabian Ardaya (@FabianArdaya) April 13, 2026
Pressure to Perform
Casparius was hoping for a bounce-back year this season. Unfortunately, it has yet to materialize. He has appeared in five games this year and is 0-1 with an Earned Run Average above nine. Yesterday, in his latest foray on the mound, he gave up two runs on two hits in one inning in a sloppy loss against the Texas Rangers. Casparius has yet to regain the control and effectiveness he had back in 2024 when he had a 1.42 ERA during the postseason. Thanks to a shallow starting rotation, the right-hander started a World Series game. He was so effective in a long relief role that the Dodgers moved him to a starting role in 2025, but with mixed results. Now, it appears he will remain in the bullpen when healthy.
Young Hurler Gets His Chance
For his part, Hurt was a favorite to make the bullpen out of spring training. However, the Dodgers felt he needed some innings under his belt and regular work to see how he would hold up. After all, he did have Tommy John surgery in 2024. The right-handed reliever has a 3.68 ERA in Oklahoma City. Hurt has a dynamic repertoire with swing and miss stuff. He struck out the side in his Major League debut in 2023. He looks like a high-leverage reliever in the making.
Dodging a Bullet?
Dodgers closer Edwin Díaz has caused concern because his velocity is down. However, he insists that he is healthy. He might be available tonight if needed. Los Angeles is hoping he works out the kinks and avoids the I.L. They are going to need him.
Main Photo Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images
