The Los Angeles Dodgers will sign right-handed pitcher Luis García to a minor league deal, according to Just Baseball’s Aram Leighton. García is invited to spring training.
The Dodgers and RHP Luis Garcia have agreed to a minor league deal, sources tell @JustBB_Media. Includes an invite to Spring Training.
Garcia started the 2024 season with the Angels before he was acquired by the Red Sox at the deadline in exchange for four prospects.
— Aram Leighton (@AramLeighton8) February 14, 2025
Report: Dodgers Sign Reliever Luis García to Minor League Deal
Back Where It All Began
The Dodgers are very familiar with García. They drafted him in the Amateur Draft in 2004 at the age of 16. He spent four years in the Los Angeles organization before being traded to the Washington Nationals for infielder Ronnie Belliard.
A Career Interrupted
After a brief time away from baseball, García signed with the Philadelphia Phillies, making his big league debut in 2013. The journeyman reliever has spent time with more than a half-dozen teams, including two stints with the Los Angeles Angels and Dodgers, respectively. He has a mid-nineties fastball and a slider in his repertoire. Before being traded at the deadline to the Boston Red Sox last year, the right-hander had a respectable ERA of 3.71 and a 3.69 FIP in a 45-game sample. While wearing a Halo uniform, García recorded 11 holds and four saves to his credit.
Unfortunately, he was not able to replicate that success in Beantown. García’s ERA more than doubled. However, the Dodgers must see something they like, as they have had many bullpen reclamation projects. The most recent example is Michael Kopech.
No Room…For Now
It is no secret the Dodgers are juggling roster spots. Los Angeles traded the reliable Ryan Brasier to the Cubs to make room for Kirby Yates. As Enrique Hernández, who was just signed yesterday, said, “This roster was more full than a Bad Bunny concert.” Yet, the Dodgers value depth and know better than most that injuries can hit at any time. García could be an important piece even if his role is yet to be determined.
Although Los Angeles hasn’t made clear how García fits in the scheme of things, what is clear is they play the short game and the long game of strategy very well.
Photo Credit: © Eric Canha-Imagn Images
