The Los Angeles Dodgers selected the contract of Steven Souza Jr. and optioned Zach McKinstry. Additionally, Garrett Cleavinger was transferred to the 60-day injured list in order to make room for Souza on the Dodgers’ 40-man roster.
Cleavinger had been on the 10-day IL since Aug. 8 (retroactive to Aug. 7) because of a right oblique strain. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts at the time could not offer a timetable for Cleavinger’s return but recently indicated that was not close.
Cleavinger previously missed time this season due to left elbow inflammation. Tuesday’s paper move ends his season.
The southpaw went 2-4 with a 3.00 ERA and 1.78 WHIP in 22 games, which included one start as an opener. Cleavinger also was part of a rarity in his first season with the Dodgers as he was among three relief pitchers from the University of Oregon appear in the same game.
Cleavinger combined with Jake Reed and Jimmie Sherfy to accomplish the feat. It marked the first time all three pitched in the same game since doing so for the Ducks in 2013.
McKinstry returns to OKC less than one week after joining the Dodgers when active rosters expanded. He appeared in one game after that point, striking out in a pinch-hit appearance against the San Francisco Giants.
Souza is back up with the Dodgers for a second time. He first was added to the Dodgers’ active roster in the middle of June, and appeared in 13 games. The veteran outfielder was designated for assignment when the Dodgers called up Nate Jones in July, but wound up clearing waivers and re-signing to remain in the organization.
Roberts said Souza’s primary role will be to start against left-handed pitchers and also serve as a pinch-hitter.
Souza does Pollock impersonation
Prior to AJ Pollock suffering a Grade 2 right hamstring strain, Souza poked fun at his good friend by doing an impersonation.
Pollock and several other Dodgers commented on Souza’s Instagram post with their approval.
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