The Los Angeles Dodgers have been running on fumes in the bullpen lately, and they just got some help. Right-hander Landon Knack is off the injured list, the team confirmed Saturday, and he’s rejoining a pitching staff that went through seven arms in Friday’s 9-3 loss to Arizona.
To make room for Knack on the active roster, the Dodgers sent Kyle Hurt down to Triple-A Oklahoma City. They also had to clear a spot on the 40-man roster, so lefty Charlie Barnes was designated for assignment.
Knack’s 2025 Season So Far
Knack’s numbers this year aren’t going to blow anyone away. He’s made 10 appearances and has a 4.89 ERA, which is a step back from his rookie season in 2024 when he posted a 3.65 ERA over 15 outings, 12 of them starts. But here’s the thing — the guy has been through the postseason gauntlet and came out with a ring. He pitched in three playoff games for the Dodgers last October, and that kind of experience matters when your team is in a tight division race.
The Dodgers have been hit hard by injuries on the mound, and having another arm who can start or come out of the bullpen is useful. Knack has done both. He’s versatile, and with the way this team has been piecing games together lately, versatility is a premium.
Ohtani’s All-Star Scratch Adds to the Drama
The bigger story this weekend is Shohei Ohtani. He was pulled from the All-Star Game because of a knee issue and also scratched from his scheduled start Friday night. The Dodgers had to roll with a bullpen game against Arizona, and it didn’t go well. Losing a pitcher who also happens to be the best hitter in baseball is a problem. But for now, the focus is on getting Knack back into the mix and trying to stabilize things on the mound.
Saturday night’s game against the Diamondbacks is set for 9:10 PM EST at Dodger Stadium. The Dodgers are hoping Knack can eat some innings and give the bullpen a breather after Friday’s marathon. They don’t need him to be perfect. They just need him to be a bridge, and that might be enough.
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