LOS ANGELES – Fresh off winning a second consecutive World Series, the Los Angeles Dodgers are once again relying on the philosophy that has defined their sustained success: that Dodgers minor moves impact the Major League roster in major ways. While the blockbuster signings often grab headlines, the team’s recent low-key acquisitions and roster protections signal a targeted effort to fortify bullpen and corner outfield depth for the 2026 season.
The Case for an Outfield Fix: Ryan Ward’s Major League Chance
One of the most significant “minor moves” was the long-awaited addition of outfielder Ryan Ward to the 40-man roster. Ward, the Pacific Coast League Player of the Year in 2025, forced the Dodgers’ hand by leading the minor leagues with 36 home runs and driving in 122 runs.
Ward’s offensive profile is seen as a potential high-reward fix for a corner outfield position that, despite the team’s overall success, sometimes lacked consistent offensive production. Though concerns about his defense persist, the organization is betting on his bat and reported defensive improvements to translate at the highest level. If Ward can successfully transition from Triple-A star to a viable Major League contributor, this minor roster transaction could provide immense offensive value.
Protecting the Bullpen: Ronan Kopp and Antoine Kelly
The Dodgers are known for their ability to find and develop high-leverage pitching, and their recent bullpen moves reflect this strategy.
To guard against the upcoming Rule 5 Draft, the team selected the contract of left-handed reliever Ronan Kopp. Kopp possesses lethal strikeout stuff, evidenced by his 14.2 strikeout rate per nine innings across the upper minors in 2025. While his walk rate remains high, the team has a track record of harnessing elite velocity and stuff, hoping Kopp can become a high-leverage weapon similar to other former under-the-radar bullpen pieces.
In another classic “bargain basement” move, the Dodgers signed veteran left-handed reliever Antoine Kelly to a minor-league contract. Kelly, a former second-round pick, has struggled with control and injuries in recent years. This low-risk, high-reward signing is the kind of move the Dodgers’ front office excels at, offering the pitcher an opportunity to regain his form within one of baseball’s most advanced development systems.
Remembering the Blueprint for Minor Impact
The current front office often points to past success stories as justification for these depth signings. The mid-season acquisition of reliever Will Klein in 2025—a player with a high ERA who ultimately delivered a pivotal performance in the World Series—serves as a constant reminder that under-the-radar players can become October heroes.
The question for the 2026 season is whether the additions of power hitters like Ward, or high-octane arms like Kopp and Kelly, will provide the next crucial surge of talent needed for the Dodgers to pursue a historic three-peat. The team’s faith rests on these Dodgers minor moves delivering major, championship-defining impact.
