The Los Angeles Dodgers have officially signed right-hander Chris Stratton to a major league contract, a move announced by the team to strengthen their pitching staff. To create space on the active roster, right-handed pitcher Bobby Miller was optioned to the minors, while right-hander J.P. Feyereisen was designated for assignment to clear room on the 40-man roster. The signing was initially reported by Jon Heyman of the New York Post. While specific financial terms remain undisclosed, the contract stands as a major league deal.
Overview of Chris Stratton’s Career and Performance
Chris Stratton, 34, was selected in the first round by the San Francisco Giants in 2012 and debuted in the majors in 2016. During his early years in San Francisco, Stratton primarily served as a starting pitcher. However, after being traded to the Los Angeles Angels before the 2019 season, he transitioned into a relief role. Over the past six seasons, Stratton has played for several teams including Anaheim, Pittsburgh, St. Louis, Texas, and Kansas City. His overall performance has been modest, with a 4.63 ERA (93 ERA+) and a 3.96 FIP in 406 2/3 innings. Notably, he displayed competent middle relief stints with the Pirates, Cardinals, and Rangers, combining for a 3.91 ERA (109 ERA+) and a 3.51 FIP.
Recent Challenges and Contract History with Kansas City Royals
Following his contribution to the Texas Rangers’ 2023 World Series championship, Stratton secured a two-year, $8 million guaranteed contract with the Kansas City Royals ahead of the 2024 season, including an opt-out clause before the 2025 offseason. Unfortunately, his tenure with the Royals did not meet expectations. Stratton struggled through the 2024 campaign, posting a 5.55 ERA in 57 appearances. This season, his difficulties deepened as his ERA soared to 7.94 over 17 innings, leading to his designation for assignment and subsequent release earlier in the week.
Why the Dodgers See Potential Despite Recent Struggles
Although Stratton’s recent statistics are concerning, the Dodgers’ interest lies in his underlying metrics that suggest room for improvement. His .443 BABIP this year is unusually high and unlikely to persist, while his 58.5% strand rate points to some unfavorable sequencing luck. Stratton’s ground ball rate remains above average, and his strikeout-to-walk rates have improved relative to last year. If he manages to align his performance with a 4.13 FIP and 4.02 SIERA, many believe he could become a valuable asset in the Dodgers’ bullpen, especially because the team currently has 14 pitchers on the injured list.
Impacts on J.P. Feyereisen and Dodgers’ Roster Decisions
The signing of Stratton effectively marks the end of J.P. Feyereisen’s time with the Dodgers. This season, Feyereisen’s appearances have been limited and largely ineffective, resulting in an 11.25 ERA over four innings between the Dodgers and Arizona Diamondbacks. Despite showing promise in previous years with a 1.90 ERA and 3.44 FIP across 80 1/3 innings from 2021 to 2022, Feyereisen missed the entire 2023 season due to injury and has struggled upon return, posting a 9.00 ERA in 15 innings. His minor league numbers have been mixed, with a 2.25 ERA in ten outings for Arizona’s Reno affiliate contrasting earlier Triple-A struggles with the Dodgers. The team now has one week to either arrange a trade involving Feyereisen or try to pass him through waivers.