The Los Angeles Dodgers reinstated Joe Kelly from the injured list and optioned Victor Gonzalez to Triple-A Oklahoma City prior to Wednesday’s game against the San Diego Padres. Kelly joins Julio Urias in returning during this week’s series at Petco Park, and Mookie Betts is expected to follow Thursday.
Kelly was placed on the IL on Aug. 10 for an undisclosed reason. When asked if he could provide any specifics, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said he was not at liberty to.
Kelly joined Low-A Rancho Cucamonga this past weekend for a rehab assignment that spanned two appearances, including the first as an opener last Friday. The right-hander struck out the first batter faced but issued two consecutive walks and was removed.
“He was rusty. Stuff was good, rusty,” Roberts said.
Kelly pitched again two days later, entering in the fourth inning and striking out one batter en route to retiring the side in order.
The 33-year-old is 2-0 with a 3.34 ERA in 31 games this season. Kelly began the year on the 10-day IL due to what later became known as needed time for continued recovery from offseason shoulder surgery. Kelly has noted how much healthier he feels this season after having cysts removed.
Gonzalez returned from the IL last week after missing time due to right knee inflammation. He started one game on a rehab assignment for the Quakes, allowing three runs and recording just one out.
Gonzalez allowed just one hit over 2.1 innings across two games upon returning. On the season he’s 3-1 with one save, a 3.57 ERA and 1.44 WHIP this year.
Dodgers want consistency from Gonzalez
Similar to with a decision earlier this season to option Brusdar Graterol to Oklahoma City, the Dodgers are hopeful Gonzalez will benefit from time with the affiliate.
“Tough decision with what Victor means to us,” Roberts said. “I think the bottom line is he’s been dealing with an injury, he’s healthy from that. Getting him back off the IL, just want him to be consistent with his outings and looking for consistency with the fastball and slider.”
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