Dodgers Place 11-Year Veteran Starter On Waivers

The Los Angeles Dodgers have designated veteran left-hander James Paxton for assignment to make room for highly-touted pitching prospect River Ryan, who has been called up from Triple-A Oklahoma City. 

Paxton, 35, joined the Dodgers on a one-year deal with a complex salary structure, which included up to $13 million in potential earnings through incentives. 

Despite posting an 8-2 record in 18 starts, Paxton struggled with command and consistency, recording a 4.43 ERA over 89.1 innings. 

James Paxton wasn't great, but he was pretty much the only healthy starter for the Dodgers and has shown flashes recently

I thought he'd make an interesting piece outta the bullpen if the rotation was ever fully healthy

I get needing to clear a roster spot but this is shocking

— Blake Harris (@BlakeHHarris) July 22, 2024

His 12.3% walk rate was the highest among major league pitchers with at least 80 innings, significantly contributing to his uneven performance.

Paxton's strikeout rate of 16.4% was notably below the league average of 22.3%, and his recent outings revealed further challenges, as he posted a 5.82 ERA over his last 11 starts, averaging less than 4.2 innings per game. 

The decision to designate him for assignment comes as the Dodgers prepare to welcome back key starters Tyler Glasnow and Clayton Kershaw from the injured list. Kershaw, returning from shoulder surgery last November, and Glasnow, recovering from back issues, are set to bolster the Dodgers' rotation as they aim for a strong second half of the season.

James Paxton has been designated for assignment pic.twitter.com/1bqHpJIz84

— Talkin’ Baseball (@TalkinBaseball_) July 22, 2024

With the Dodgers currently leading the NL West with a 59-41 record, the return of their star pitchers is expected to provide a significant boost. 

Meanwhile, Paxton, likely to draw interest from other teams in need of rotation help, will be owed only the prorated portion of his $7 million salary for the remainder of the season if he is released.

Photo Credit: Jonathan Hui-USA TODAY Sports