The Los Angeles Dodgers announced on May 19 that pitcher Eric Lauer has been added to the active roster after the team optioned right-hander Wyatt Mills. The move was made ahead of the Dodgers’ series against the San Diego Padres.
The transaction comes after an agreement with the Toronto Blue Jays, in which the Dodgers acquired Lauer for cash considerations. The left-handed pitcher had previously been designated for assignment by Toronto and is expected to help fill innings for Los Angeles following injuries to Blake Snell and Tyler Glasnow.
Mills, who was sent down as a result of this move, appeared in eight games for the Dodgers this season and recorded an 8.10 earned run average (ERA). Over his major league career, he has a 6.35 ERA in 42 appearances. Mills relies on a side-arm delivery but struggled with control during his time with Los Angeles.
Lauer also faced challenges earlier this year while pitching for Toronto, posting a 6.69 ERA over eight games. However, he had more success last season with a 3.18 ERA across 28 games, including 15 starts. At age 31, Lauer is seen as an experienced arm who can contribute both from the bullpen and as an occasional starter.
The addition of Lauer gives the Dodgers another left-handed option on their pitching staff as they look to stabilize their rotation amid ongoing injuries.
