Michael Kopech DVOA, Advanced Stats, & Fantasy Rankings

Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said that right-handed reliever Michael Kopech (forearm) is behind schedule in his ramp-up to open spring training, and the skipper is unsure if Kopech will have to start the 2025 regular season on the injured list. Kopech dealt with right-forearm inflammation this winter, although some in the Dodgers organization were saying that his injury was being overblown. The 28-year-old hasn't been shut down from throwing, though, so if he does start the year on the IL, hopefully it won't be a lengthy stay before he makes his season debut. The hard-throwing reliever was great for the Dodgers in 24 regular-season appearances last year after being acquired from the White Sox, posting a 1.13 ERA, 0.79 WHIP and six saves. However, the additions of relievers Tanner Scott and Kirby Yates this offseason make it unlikely Kopech sees many save chances in 2025.

Los Angeles Dodgers general manager Brandon Gomes said on Wednesday that reports of a forearm injury for right-handed reliever Michael Kopech (forearm) have been overblown. Like many of the team's other pitchers during their World Series run last October, Kopech was "grinding" through a forearm issue. "I don't think there's anything of concern at this point," Gomes said. A report surfaced last week that indicated there was a chance the hard-throwing right-hander might have to miss the first month of the 2025 regular season due to right-forearm inflammation. It's something to watch for the 28-year-old with spring training right around the corner, but our guess is the Blue will take it easy on him in camp, especially since he won't need many innings to get ready for the season in a full-time relief role. L.A. signed lefty Tanner Scott and righty Kirby Yates as insurance. When healthy, Kopech has one of the most dominant fastballs in the game, and he should be a great source of K's and holds when healthy.

USA TODAY's Bob Nightengale reports that the Los Angeles Dodgers have added more bullpen depth with left-hander Tanner Scott and right-hander Kirby Yates in recent days with right-hander Michael Kopech (undisclosed) expected to possibly miss the first month of the regular season. At this time, it's unknown what type of ailment Kopech is dealing with, but the hard-throwing 28-year-old probably won't pitch in spring training. Stay tuned for more details on his injury. If he's not ready for Opening Day, expect Scott to serve as LA's primary closer, with Yates and Evan Phillips working in high-leverage setup roles for the defending World Series champions. Kopech leaned more on his elite fastball in 2024 to excellent results, posting a league-best 34% whiff rate on his four-seamer. He had 15 saves, 10 holds and six wins with LA and the White Sox, but his injury will drop his fantasy appeal heading into the 2025 season.