Dodgers nearing agreement with Kirby Yates, bolstering roster for title defense
Despite already having a wealth of talent, the Los Angeles Dodgers continue to enhance their lineup.
After completing a deal with free-agent lefty reliever Tanner Scott earlier this week, the Dodgers are now on the brink of signing right-handed reliever Kirby Yates, according to a source familiar with the negotiations who spoke to YSL News Sports on the condition of anonymity since the agreement is still subject to a physical exam.
Yates, a two-time All-Star, has rejuvenated his career after missing the entire 2021 season and part of 2022 due to elbow surgery. At 37 years old, he achieved a remarkable 1.17 ERA and recorded 33 saves while playing for the Texas Rangers last season.
In 2019, while with the San Diego Padres, Yates led all of Major League Baseball in saves, but he encountered an elbow injury during the shortened 2020 season that led to Tommy John surgery.
From 2019 to 2022, Yates pitched only 11 â…“ innings before making a successful comeback as a setup man for the Atlanta Braves in 2023.
Yates signed a one-year contract with the Rangers and excelled back in the closer position, garnering his second All-Star nod by successfully converting 33 out of 34 save opportunities and limiting opponents to a mere .113 batting average over 61 2/3 innings.
Contributing: Bob Nightengale
