Bold claim: the Dodgers are bringing back Yency Almonte on a minor league deal, betting on a rebound from a pitcher with a mixed track record but potential upside. But here’s where it gets controversial: is a low-risk minor league agreement the right move for a bullpen that already features established names? Let’s break it down clearly.
What happened
- The Dodgers agreed to a minor league contract with right-handed reliever Yency Almonte, with expectations that he’ll compete in big league camp.
- This marks a return to Los Angeles for the 31-year-old, who previously pitched for the Dodgers in 2022–23.
Past performance and context
- Dodgers stint (2022–23): Almonte totaled 83 1/3 innings with a 3.35 ERA, a 23.9% strikeout rate, and a 11.9% walk rate in a bullpen role. His results were uneven: a sparkling 1.02 ERA over 35 1/3 innings in 2022, followed by a rough 5.06 ERA across 48 innings in 2023.
- Trade history: He was dealt to the Cubs in early 2024 (in a swap that sent Michael Busch to Chicago) and then rejoined the Dodgers in a return that also involved prospects Zyhir Hope and Jackson Ferris.
- Chicago tenure: 2024 saw a 3.45 ERA but only 15 2/3 innings before a shoulder strain curtailed the season. The Cubs outrighted him in November 2024, after which he elected free agency and re-signed on a minor league deal. In 2025, injuries limited him to 19 1/3 innings in Chicago’s system.
What his career numbers say
- MLB innings: 223 out of the rotation/relief mix, with a 4.44 ERA, a 22.5% strikeout rate, a 9.9% walk rate, and a 43.5% ground-ball rate.
- Park considerations: He carried a higher 5.30 ERA in four seasons with the Rockies, contrasting with a more favorable 3.36 ERA over 99 innings since leaving Coors Field.
- Velocity notes: In his Dodgers tenure, he sat around 96 mph on both his four-seamer and sinker. With the Cubs, velocity dipped slightly before the shoulder issue sidelined him.
Current Dodgers bullpen picture
- The Dodgers already boast a deep bullpen led by Edwin Diaz, Tanner Scott, Blake Treinen, and Alex Vesia. There isn’t a pressing need for another established late-inning arm right now.
- Almonte’s path: He’ll likely compete for a spot in spring training and, if he doesn’t crack the MLB roster, provide experienced depth in Oklahoma City’s Triple-A squad.
Why this move might make sense
- Organizational depth: Small, low-risk deals like this can pay off if a pitcher recaptures form in camp and earns a bullpen role.
- Health and versatility: If Almonte can stay healthy and show he can miss bats consistently, he can be a versatile option for length or left-handed-right-handed matchup flexibility.
Why some will push back
- Opportunity cost: Is a minor league deal with a potentially low ceiling the best allocation of bullpen resources when the Dodgers already have established relievers? Critics might say the team could prioritize youth development or a higher-upside reclamation project.
- Uncertainty: Prior injuries and inconsistent performances in recent seasons raise questions about long-term reliability, even if the spring chance is appealing.
Thought-provoking angle
- If Almonte can recapture his 2022 form or better, this move could look like a steal. If not, the transaction may be viewed as a low-stakes re-acquisition of depth. Would you rather the Dodgers invest more in youth development or in proven-depth signings like this? How would you weigh upside versus floor in bullpen construction?
Bottom line
- The Dodgers are adding a familiar arm on a minor league deal in hopes of spring competition and added depth. The outcome hinges on his health and ability to regain velocity and control. It’s a cautious, data-backed bet that could pay off if the pitcher recaptures his earlier peak, or simply add useful depth if not.
