The Los Angeles Dodgers have made several roster adjustments as they finalize their lineup for the upcoming season. Infielder Hyeseong Kim and right-handed pitcher Bobby Miller have been optioned to the minors. Additionally, non-roster invitees Giovanny Gallegos, Eddie Rosario, David Bote, Michael Chavis, and top prospect Dalton Rushing have been reassigned to minor league camp. These moves indicate the team’s focus on fine-tuning their roster while allowing younger players to develop further.
Dustin May Earns Fifth Starter Role as Dodgers Adjust Second Base Plans
With Tony Gonsolin expected to start the season on the injured list due to a back injury sustained while lifting weights, Dustin May has been named the team’s fifth starter. This development was anticipated after manager Dave Roberts suggested it was a likely outcome. May, who has battled injuries for the past two years, now has an opportunity to establish himself in the rotation and contribute significantly to the team’s pitching depth.
Dustin May (MLB)Kim, who was initially expected to start at second base, will instead begin the season in the minor leagues. The Dodgers had signed him to a three-year, $12.5 million deal and later traded Gavin Lux to Cincinnati, seemingly clearing the path for Kim at second base.
However, concerns over his offensive production have led to the decision to start him in the minors. Despite being a strong defender and baserunner, his struggles at the plate during Spring Training, where he hit .222 with one home run and 10 strikeouts in 31 plate appearances, raised doubts about his immediate readiness.
Dodgers Face Key Decisions at Second Base and Finalize Pitching Rotation
With Kim not making the Opening Day roster, the Dodgers have multiple choices for the second base position. Miguel Rojas, Enrique Hernández, and Chris Taylor—all of whom were initially expected to play utility roles—could step in.
Another possibility is shifting Tommy Edman from center field to second base, which would create an opportunity for Andy Pages or James Outman to take over in center. However, neither Pages nor Outman has performed particularly well in Spring Training, making the decision more challenging.
With May taking over as the fifth starter, the Dodgers’ rotation is now set. He joins a talented group that includes Tyler Glasnow, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Roki Sasaki, and Blake Snell. Yamamoto and Sasaki are slated to pitch in the first two games of the Tokyo Series against the Chicago Cubs next week.
May’s return is a significant moment, as he has not pitched in the major leagues for nearly two years due to multiple serious injuries, including a life-threatening esophageal tear. His performance will be closely watched as the Dodgers begin their season.
