Prior to pitchers and catchers reporting to Camelback Ranch for the start of 2023 Spring Training, the Los Angeles Dodgers agreed to terms with David Peralta and Alex Reyes on respective one-year contracts. Both deals were then finalized once camp opened.
“I think with both guys, it’s experience,” manager Dave Roberts said of the additions.
“From what I’ve gathered, they’re both great teammates and great competitors. I think to get assimilated with what we do with the Dodgers, the culture, I think it will be easy. Certainly very additive given their track records. I’m excited.”
The Dodgers reportedly tried acquiring Peralta on several previous occasions, and he likely will be part of a platoon in left field this season.
The 35-year-old hit a combined .251/.316/.415 with 30 doubles, 12 home runs and 59 RBI over 134 games with the Arizona Diamondbacks and Tampa Bay Rays last year. He won a Silver Slugger Award in 2018 and Gold Glove the following season.
As for Reyes, he is a former top prospect who hasn’t been on a Major League mound since the 2021 National League Wild Card Game when he surrendered a walk-off home run to Chris Taylor.
Reyes missed the entire 2022 season after undergoing right shoulder surgery and was non-tendered by the St. Louis Cardinals. The 28-year-old is expected to miss at least the first two months of the 2023 campaign but could prove to be a valued addition to the Dodgers bullpen if able to get healthy.
Dodgers re-sign Jimmy Nelson
In addition to the signings of Peralta and Reyes, the Dodgers brought back Jimmy Nelson on a one-year contract for the 2023 season. The right-hander missed all of 2022 while recovering from Tommy John surgery and had his $1.1 million team option declined.
This marks the fourth contract Nelson has signed with the Dodgers despite last pitching during the 2021 season. He earned a spot on the Opening Day roster that year and went 1-2 with a 1.86 ERA in 28 games (one start).
Are you following Dodger Blue on Instagram? It’s the best way to see exclusive coverage from games and events, get your questions answered, and more!
