The bullpen has always been a notable weakness for the Dodgers for many years. Even when we saw the Dodgers’ bullpen rise to the occasion during the regular season, there were moments that left a bad taste in the mouths of fans. However, Andrew Friedman has been trying to add needed depth and talent to a depleted pen who lost Blake Treinen and Pedro Baez.
Friedman has already reunited Brandon Morrow with the organization, and if he can stay healthy then the bullpen will get a considerable upgrade. On Wednesday morning, Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic announced that the Dodgers made another move to acquire even more bullpen help. Ex-Yankee Tommy Kahnle and the Dodgers have agreed to a two-year deal worth $4.75 million, plus incentives.
Tommy Kahnle literally sits down Pete Alonso. pic.twitter.com/ZV1HsZv7Lk
— YES Network (@YESNetwork) June 11, 2019
It should be noted that Kahnle underwent Tommy John surgery back in August and won’t be back until at the earliest, late this season. If he could return by then, he’ll be right on time to help the Dodgers during their playoff push. The 31-year old right-hander has posted a career 3.82 innings across 277.2 innings.
If Kahnle’s rehab stalls out and he isn’t able to return by this season then the Dodgers will have a chance to reap the benefit of having him on the roster for the 2022 season. His presence in the pen would provide needed insurance as Kenley Jansen and Corey Knebel are set to become free agents at season’s end.
