Dodgers add pitcher Nate Jones to 40-man roster

After a bullpen game on Thursday, the Dodgers added one extra arm for their weekend series in San Francisco. Ahead of the game, the team announced they had selected the contract of right-handed pitcher Nate Jones and optioned outfielder Luke Raley. To make room on the 40-man roster, the Dodgers designated Travis Blankenhorn for assignment.

Jones, 35, was signed to a minor-league contract last week. He has appeared in 12 games this season for the Braves. In his games, he posted an ERA of 3.48 and an ERA+ of 128, both solid numbers. However, he has struggled immensely with command. In 10 1⁄3 innings of work, he’s issued 10 walks with only seven strikeouts. His inability to throw strikes is what ultimately led to his release a few days ago from Atlanta.

This appears to be yet another one of those “low-risk/high-reward” type of signings for the Dodgers. Throughout his career, Jones has been a solid bullpen piece. He was great for the White Sox from 2015-2019. During that stretch, he appeared in 147 games and had an ERA+ of 156. He struck out 164 and had 49 walks.

Farewell, Blankenhorn. He was added to the 40-man roster a few weeks ago, but was struggling in Oklahoma City. Although he’s a versatile player, there appeared to be no room on the roster for him. Who knows, maybe he’ll be back with OKC soon if he isn’t claimed off waivers.