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Dodgers sign Keynan Middleton aiming for pitching depth

Feb 27, 2026, 10:16 PM20
(Update: Feb 27, 2026, 10:18 PM)
American professional baseball pitcher
Major League Baseball franchise in Los Angeles, California

Dodgers sign Keynan Middleton aiming for pitching depth

  • Keynan Middleton, a veteran reliever, was signed by the Los Angeles Dodgers on February 16 for a minor-league contract after spending last season in independent ball.
  • Emmet Sheehan, a young right-hander, is vying for a position in the Dodgers' starting rotation and has been labeled a breakout candidate due to his strong performance last season.
  • The Dodgers' commitment to finding hidden pitching depth showcases their strategy to enhance their postseason potential as they aim for another successful season.
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The Los Angeles Dodgers have historically excelled in finding pitching depth, which has been a significant factor in their consecutive World Series victories. This strength is exemplified by the recent signing of Keynan Middleton, a veteran right-handed reliever, who has been in and out of the major leagues over the past seven years. Middleton's most recent affiliation was with the St. Louis Cardinals, where he unfortunately faced a season marred by injuries, leading to a surgery for a right elbow flexor injury. The Dodgers signed him to a minor-league deal on February 16, hoping he can bounce back and serve as a useful addition to their bullpen if he regains his pre-injury form. However, with the existing depth of the Dodgers’ bullpen, the opportunity for significant innings for Middleton is uncertain at this time. Adding to the Dodgers' pitching situation, there are ongoing concerns about their starting rotation depth, particularly with the reduced availability of star pitcher Shohei Ohtani. Emmet Sheehan, a promising right-hander, is currently competing for a rotation spot. He recorded notable statistics last season, with a 2.28 ERA in 15 appearances and 89 strikeouts, showcasing his potential as a breakout candidate this year, as highlighted by Eno Sarris of The Athletic. Sheehan’s performance this spring will be crucial for him to secure a place within a highly competitive starting rotation. As spring training progresses, both Keynan Middleton and Emmet Sheehan are under scrutiny. Middleton aims to rebound from his tumultuous recent past, while Sheehan looks to build on his success from last year. The Dodgers' fans are eagerly observing the development of these pitchers in the Cactus League, hoping to watch their team’s next unsung heroes emerge as they prepare for the upcoming season. The Dodgers' decision to sign veteran players to minor-league contracts reflects their strategy of finding hidden gems that can contribute to their long-term success and potentially become critical players during the postseason. This commitment to depth has served them well in previous titles, and their players' performances in spring training will be a vital indicator of their forthcoming season prospects. With both seasoned and newer talent, the focus is on maximizing their roster’s potential to maintain their competitive edge in the league.

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