Chris Stratton is once again a free agent after electing not to report to Triple-A Oklahoma City following his designation for assignment by the Los Angeles Dodgers.
The veteran right-hander had cleared waivers and was eligible for an outright assignment. Instead, Stratton declined the move and will now explore other opportunities on the open market.
Short Stint With the Dodgers
Stratton signed a major league deal with the Dodgers on May 25, providing emergency bullpen depth amidst a wave of pitching injuries. He made just two appearances, allowing two earned runs in three innings for a 6.00 ERA before being designated for assignment on Monday after a trade forced a roster shuffle.
While brief, his Dodgers stint added another chapter to his long MLB journey, one that includes a World Series title with the Texas Rangers in 2023.
A Journeyman Arm With Bullpen Value
Chris Stratton, 34, began the 2025 season with the Kansas City Royals, where he struggled to a 7.94 ERA over 12 appearances. In 2024, he had a 5.55 ERA in 57 games, also with Kansas City.
Originally a first-round pick by the San Francisco Giants in 2012, Stratton debuted in 2016. Since then, he’s pitched for seven different teams. Which includes the Angels, Pirates, Cardinals, Rangers, and Dodgers, totaling 373 appearances (42 starts) with a career 4.63 ERA across 623.1 innings.
Despite recent struggles, he still ranks in the 90th percentile for average exit velocity and 81st in hard-hit percentage, indicating underlying value as a bullpen piece.
What’s Next for Stratton?
While this season hasn’t gone his way, Stratton’s six-pitch mix, which includes a four-seamer, curveball, slider, changeup, sinker, and sweeper. Still makes him a compelling depth option for teams needing relief help.
Given his experience and track record of contributing in high-leverage spots, particularly during Texas’s 2023 title run. It’s likely he’ll latch onto a new club soon. Whether it’s on a minor league deal or a bullpen role at the big-league level, Stratton will be hoping his next stop offers more stability.
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