Dodgers DFA Former Top Prospect Despite Posting 2.28 ERA

The Los Angeles Dodgers made a surprising roster move by designating right-hander Brent Honeywell Jr. for assignment, despite his solid performance since joining the team in mid-July.

Claimed off waivers from the Pittsburgh Pirates, Honeywell quickly made an impact in the Dodgers' bullpen, posting an impressive 2.28 ERA over 23.2 innings across 10 appearances.

His unique screwball pitch, particularly effective against left-handed hitters, allowed him to reinvent himself as a reliable reliever after years of injury setbacks that had once derailed his promising career as a top prospect.

The Dodgers really DFA’d Brent Honeywell, when there’s other guys that should be DFA’d. I don’t understand Andrew Friedman and this goofy franchise especially Dave Roberts.
— Joshua F✈️ (@fly1josh) August 18, 2024

Despite these strong numbers, underlying metrics such as a low strikeout rate and a high strand rate hinted at potential regression, which may have influenced the Dodgers' decision to designate Honeywell for assignment.

With Honeywell out of minor league options, the Dodgers opted to clear space on the roster for rookie right-hander Ben Casparius, who has shown promise in the minors.

Casparius, a 25-year-old drafted in 2021, earned his promotion after posting a 3.54 ERA in 13 starts at Triple-A Oklahoma City.