The Los Angeles Dodgers are set to activate left-handed pitcher Kris Bubic from the 60-day injured list ahead of their series against the Cincinnati Reds, according to multiple reports. Bubic, who was acquired from the Kansas City Royals at the Aug. 3 trade deadline, is expected to join the team in Cincinnati on Tuesday prior to the team’s game against the Reds.
Bubic completed his minor league rehab assignment with Triple-A Oklahoma City on Sunday, allowing no runs in 5 2/3 innings across six appearances. He struck out three batters in his final outing, limiting opponents to two hits and two walks. The Dodgers have not yet announced an official activation date, but sources indicate he could be reinstated as early as Tuesday.
The team’s decision to bring Bubic back follows the placement of left-hander Eric Lauer on the 60-day injured list last week due to left elbow inflammation, ending his season. Bubic’s return provides the Dodgers with an additional multi-inning relief option as they prepare for the final stretch of the regular season and the postseason.
Injury History and Performance Context
Bubic has not pitched in the major leagues since May, when he was placed on the injured list first for a low-grade flexor strain in his left forearm, followed by a shoulder impingement setback. The Dodgers acquired him from the Royals in a trade that included minor league prospects, aiming to bolster their pitching depth.
During his time with Kansas City in 2025, Bubic was named an All-Star after posting a 2.55 ERA and 116 strikeouts in 116.1 innings across 20 starts. This season, he went 3-2 with a 4.11 ERA in nine starts before his injury. Notably, Bubic performed significantly better at Kauffman Stadium, where he held opponents to a .167 batting average with a 3.34 ERA and 1.04 WHIP in five home starts.
The Dodgers have indicated that Bubic will not return as a starter due to the limited remaining regular season schedule and their projected postseason rotation, which includes Tarik Skubal, Blake Snell, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, and Tyler Glasnow. Instead, he is expected to contribute as a reliever, providing flexibility in high-leverage situations.
Roster Considerations
Because Bubic is on the 60-day injured list, the Dodgers will need to clear spots on both the active roster and the 40-man roster to reinstate him. The team has not yet specified which players may be affected by this move, but roster adjustments are common when activating injured players late in the season.
The Dodgers currently lead the National League West and are positioned for a deep postseason run. Bubic’s addition to the bullpen could provide valuable depth as the team navigates the final weeks of the regular season and the playoffs.