Dodgers Acquire LHP Zach Penrod in Trade with Red Sox
Colaboradores
The Los Angeles Dodgers have bolstered their bullpen depth by acquiring left-handed pitcher Zach Penrod from the Boston Red Sox. According to reports, the Red Sox designated Penrod for assignment earlier this week following the acquisition of Jordan Hicks and Kyle Harrison.
Penrod's Journey to the Majors
Zach Penrod's path to Major League Baseball is a testament to perseverance. Signed as an undrafted free agent by the Texas Rangers in 2018, he was released during the pandemic-shortened 2020 season. Undeterred, Penrod spent three years pitching in the independent Pioneer League, where he caught the eye of Red Sox scouts. In 2024, a strong showing in the minor leagues earned him a spot on Boston's 40-man roster.
Performance and Injury
In 2024, Penrod pitched 62 2/3 innings across three levels, posting a 4.16 ERA with an impressive 34.8% strikeout rate. He even made a brief appearance in the majors, pitching four innings. While he was expected to compete for a bullpen role in 2025, an elbow injury during spring training sidelined him for nearly three months. Since returning from injury, he's shown flashes of potential but struggled with command, allowing four runs in 7 1/3 innings in the minors.
What Penrod Brings to the Dodgers
Penrod's fastball averages around 95 mph, and his swinging-strike rate is impressive. While he may start in Triple-A, he could provide valuable depth for the Dodgers as they contend for a playoff spot. The Red Sox, who signed left-handed relievers Aroldis Chapman and Justin Wilson this season, had less room for Penrod on their roster.
- Acquired by Dodgers from Red Sox
- Previously designated for assignment by Boston
- Strong strikeout rate in the minors
- Could provide bullpen depth for LA