The Los Angeles Dodgers have sent outfielder Jack Suwinski outright to their Triple-A affiliate in Oklahoma City, reducing their 40-man roster to 39 players as recorded on the MLB.com transaction log. This move came without first designating Suwinski for assignment, signaling a strategic roster adjustment by the team.
Background on Suwinski’s Acquisition and Performance
Los Angeles claimed Suwinski off waivers from the Pittsburgh Pirates last month, inheriting his $1.25 million salary along with a $1.375 million luxury tax commitment. Initially, the acquisition appeared to be a depth addition rather than a long-term roster fixture, as Suwinski lacks minor league options and faced a tough path to secure a spot on the defending champions’ opening day roster.
Although Suwinski showed potential with Pittsburgh a few seasons back—hitting 26 home runs with a .224/.339/.454 slash in 2023—his recent struggles have been pronounced. Over the past two years, his overall performance dipped well below league average, including an on-base percentage consistently under .300.
Current Struggles and Recent Statistics
Since the start of 2024, Suwinski’s numbers have declined significantly. In 455 plate appearances, he holds a .169/.271/.297 slash line, with a 30% strikeout rate and just 12 home runs total. His Triple-A numbers from last year were stronger (.283/.389/.565), but the persistent strikeout issues remained a concern. Waiver placement was required before he could be reassigned to the minors due to his out-of-options status.
Remaining Outfield Options and Roster Considerations
Though Suwinski is no longer on the 40-man roster, he will stay in the Dodgers’ spring training camp as a non-roster invitee. The club’s outfield depth currently includes left-to-right players Teoscar Hernández, Andy Pages, and Kyle Tucker. Additionally, Alex Call is a candidate for a bench role as a right-handed platoon bat, while Ryan Ward and Michael Siani remain towards the back end of the roster.
Implications for Dodgers’ Roster Strategy
This roster move provides the Dodgers with greater flexibility by freeing a 40-man spot while keeping Suwinski accessible as organizational depth. Given his recent performance challenges and roster limitations, it reflects the team’s cautious approach in balancing veteran depth with emerging talent as they prepare for the season. How Suwinski responds in Triple-A and camp could determine his future role with the Dodgers.
