Dodgers claimed utility infielder Ryan Fitzgerald off waivers from the Twins, bolstering bench depth. Betting note: Fitzgerald’s addition slightly reduces injury risk for Los Angeles’ infield rotation, making modest reductions to downside risk on Dodgers win-total or depth-driven props — unlikely to shift futures but useful for in-season injury insurance bets.
Dodgers Claim Ryan Fitzgerald to Bolster Infield Depth
The Los Angeles Dodgers have claimed 32-year-old infielder Ryan Fitzgerald off waivers from the Minnesota Twins. Fitzgerald had been designated for assignment last week when the Twins shuffled their roster. Los Angeles created the roster spot after trading outfielder Esteury Ruiz to the Miami Marlins, acquiring minor league pitcher Adriano Marrero in that deal.
How the Transaction Unfolded
The move was part of a multi-team roster domino effect: the Marlins cleared space for Ruiz by moving others around, the Twins designated Fitzgerald to open a spot, and the Dodgers seized the opportunity to add a versatile depth piece. The claim gives Los Angeles an extra utility option as the season grinds on.
Fitzgerald’s Recent Track Record
Fitzgerald made his major league debut in June after years in the minors. In 24 big-league games with the Twins he hit .196/.302/.457 while logging time across the infield. His Triple-A numbers were stronger, producing a .277/.367/.469 line last season, suggesting there could be upside with more consistent major-league reps.
Role Within the Dodgers’ Infield
Los Angeles values versatile utility players, and Fitzgerald fits that mold. With a veteran-laden infield and several players capable of sliding around the diamond — including Tommy Edman, Hyeseong Kim, Miguel Rojas, Alex Freeland and Enrique Hernandez — manager Dave Roberts is likely to employ regular rotation and rest. Fitzgerald projects as insurance for injuries and a late-inning or spot-start option rather than an everyday starter.
Betting Implications for Punters
For bettors, Fitzgerald’s arrival is a depth move that marginally reduces the Dodgers’ injury risk rather than a game-changing addition. Expect only slight downward pressure on Dodgers win-total downside risk and improved stability for in-season prop plays tied to health or roster churn. He’s more relevant to daily and in-season contingency bets (injury replacements, bench-hit props) than to season-long futures.
Report: Dodgers sign ex-Tigers utility man who had a remarkably low strikeout rate last season
The Los Angeles Dodgers claimed infielder Ryan Fitzgerald off waivers, adding him from the Minnesota Twins.
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