The Los Angeles Dodgers have restructured their roster for the 2025 season, following a successful World Series run, but face challenges with injuries plaguing their pitching staff. Michael Kopech, acquired from the Chicago White Sox, is now at risk of starting the 2024 season on the injured list due to lingering elbow inflammation.

Despite being productive in the postseason and pivotal in the Dodgers' championship journey, Kopech's offseason progress has been slowed by health issues in his family. As he remains uncertain about his readiness for Opening Day, the Dodgers must navigate these setbacks, particularly with Evan Phillips also recovering from a rotator cuff injury.

The Los Angeles Dodgers have made a significant addition to their bullpen, signing Kirby Yates, the former Texas Rangers closer, to a one-year, $13 million deal with an extra $1 million in performance incentives. This acquisition comes as the Dodgers ramp up their offseason efforts, bringing their payroll to an unprecedented $379 million, which would set an MLB record.

Yates, coming off a stellar season with a 1.17 ERA, joins a crowded Dodgers bullpen that already includes Tanner Scott and Blake Treinen. Despite having a strong relief core, the Dodgers are expected to make further adjustments to their roster as they navigate the complexities of roster management, especially considering the injuries and options available for their relievers.

Devin Williams, the standout closer for the Milwaukee Brewers, was expected to be traded to the Los Angeles Dodgers but ended up with the New York Yankees instead. Williams expressed surprise at the trade, stating he had anticipated moving to L.A.

With Williams off the market, the Dodgers are now looking at other options to strengthen their bullpen, including free agents Tanner Scott, Paul Sewald, and Kenley Jansen. Despite having solid relievers, the Dodgers are keen on adding a closer with experience.

Devin Williams, the standout closer, was expected to be traded to the Los Angeles Dodgers but ended up with the New York Yankees instead. Williams expressed surprise at the trade, having anticipated a move to L.A. The Dodgers are still looking to enhance their bullpen and have shown interest in free agents Tanner Scott, Paul Sewald, and Kenley Jansen.

Williams boasts an impressive career, with a 1.83 ERA and a unique changeup known as the 'Airbender.' The Dodgers are expected to pursue other bullpen options following this unexpected trade, as they aim to solidify their pitching staff for the upcoming season.

The conclusion of the regular season prompts a review of relief pitchers who underperformed relative to their draft positions. Key players like Edwin Diaz of the New York Mets and Camilo Doval of the San Francisco Giants faced significant struggles, with injuries and poor performance impacting their seasons.

Other notable mentions include Alexis Diaz from the Cincinnati Reds, David Bednar of the Pittsburgh Pirates, and Jordan Romano from the Toronto Blue Jays, all of whom had disappointing years despite high expectations.