Michael Kopech DVOA, Advanced Stats, & Fantasy Rankings

Los Angeles Dodgers pitchers Clayton Kershaw (toe), Tony Gonsolin (back), and Michael Kopech (shoulder) were all placed on the 15-day injured list on Monday night. These were part of a flourish of roster moves the Dodgers made prior to their opening game in Tokyo, Japan. None of these moves came as a surprise, as these injuries have been known for a while. Kershaw is expected to require an extended absence as he recovers from toe surgery, but Gonsolin and Kopech figure to be in the mix much sooner. Kopech is an arm the Dodgers will definitely be eager to get back after he posted a 1.13 ERA and 0.79 WHIP in 24 innings after being dealt to them last season from the Chicago White Sox.

Los Angeles Dodgers right-handed reliever Michael Kopech (forearm) was set to throw a bullpen session at camp on Tuesday. Kopech is behind the other pitchers at spring training due to right-forearm inflammation that he dealt with in the offseason. While nothing is determined just yet, there's a good chance Kopech won't be available for the season-opening two-game series in Tokyo, Japan, on March 18 and 19 against the Chicago Cubs, and the hard-throwing 28-year-old could also open the regular season in the U.S. on the injured list. The former 33rd overall pick by the Boston Red Sox back in 2014 was very sharp in his 24 relief appearances with L.A. last year after being acquired from the White Sox, posting a 1.13 ERA, 0.79 WHIP and six saves, but the Dodgers' offseason additions to the bullpen will likely mean few save chances, if any, for Kopech in 2025.

Los Angeles Dodgers relief pitcher Michael Kopech (forearm) threw off the mound earlier on Saturday. Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic noted that the right-handed pitcher is expected to "touch the mound" for a brief session on Sunday as well. Fantasy managers should continue monitoring Kopech's status throughout camp, as he may miss the start of the season. Earlier in the offseason, Kopech was unavailable due to right forearm inflammation. However, seeing the 28-year-old begin to throw off the mound is a positive sign. Last season, the Dodgers acquired Kopech from the Chicago White Sox at the trade deadline. With the Dodgers, Kopech held a stellar 1.13 ERA and a 0.79 WHIP across 24 innings of work. He tallied 29 punchouts and six saves. When cleared for action, he should have a high-leverage role and compete for save opportunities.