What's Happening?
The Los Angeles Dodgers have announced the addition of catcher Seby Zavala and reliever Jordan Weems to their roster as non-roster invitees for Spring Training. Zavala, a 32-year-old right-handed catcher, is known for his defensive skills and has a career batting line of .205/.271/.342 over 194 MLB games. Last season, he played in Triple-A with the Red Sox, where he struggled offensively. Weems, a 33-year-old right-handed pitcher, has a career ERA of 5.51 over 160 innings in MLB. He spent the previous season between the Triple-A affiliates of the Astros and Braves, posting a 4.44 ERA. The Dodgers' Spring Training roster now includes 32 non-roster invitees, with Zavala and Weems joining other players like relievers Wyatt Mills, Carlos Duran,
and Antoine Kelly, who are also vying for spots on the team.
Why It's Important?
The signings of Zavala and Weems highlight the Dodgers' strategy of bolstering their depth with experienced players who can provide immediate support if needed. For Zavala, his defensive capabilities make him a valuable backup option, especially with the uncertainty surrounding Ben Rortvedt's status. Weems offers potential bullpen depth, which is crucial for a team aiming to maintain a competitive edge throughout the season. These moves reflect the Dodgers' commitment to maintaining a strong roster capable of handling the rigors of a long MLB season, ensuring they have experienced players ready to step up when necessary.
What's Next?
As Spring Training progresses, Zavala and Weems will have the opportunity to showcase their skills and potentially earn spots on the Dodgers' Opening Day roster. Zavala will compete for a backup catcher role, while Weems will aim to secure a position in the bullpen. The Dodgers will evaluate their performance alongside other non-roster invitees and roster players to determine the best fit for the team. The outcome of these evaluations will influence the team's roster decisions as they prepare for the upcoming MLB season.
