Dodgers reassign Ben Rowen to minor league camp

GLENDALE, Ariz. -- The Dodgers on Thursday before their game with the Angels reassigned pitcher Ben Rowen to minor league camp.

That brings the total number in major league camp down to 43, including 18 position players, 25 pitchers, and eight non-roster invitees.

Rowen, 26, was signed to a minor league contract on January 20 with a non-roster invitation to major league camp. He was recovering from November surgery to relieve nerve pressure in his upper arm caused by Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, which sidelined him at the start of camp.

After throwing several bullpen sessions over the last few weeks, Rowen threw live batting practice on Wednesday, the first time he had faced hitters all spring, and the submariner said he was getting closer to being able to pitch in a game.

The unconventional Rowen, who tops out in the low 80s with his fastball, said last month the new Dodgers front office was one of the reasons he signed with the Dodgers.

"I think the new mentality here, the front office with Andrew [Friedman] and Farhan [Zaidi], Gabe Kapler and those guys, I think the new mindset here is something I can flourish in," Rowen siad. "I want to help those guys win."

Minor league games begin on Friday.