The Dodgers secure a vital bullpen piece—Vesia's reliability and clutch performance are locked in for another season, bolstering their squad for the 2026 season.
The Los Angeles Dodgers have officially exercised their $3.55 million club option on left-handed reliever Alex Vesia, securing one of their most consistent bullpen options for the 2026 season. The move really comes as no surprise, as Vesia proved to be one of the Dodgers’ most reliable arms out of the bullpen throughout the 2025 season.
Vesia quietly had another strong year, going 4-2 with a 3.02 ERA over 59.2 innings. His skill at inducing weak contact and missing bats when it mattered most earned him the trust of manager Dave Roberts, who frequently called on him in close games late in the season.
The veteran southpaw continued his success into the postseason, helping the Dodgers secure the National League pennant against the Milwaukee Brewers in the NLCS. However, due to a personal family matter, Vesia was unavailable for the rest of the postseason, a notable absence during Los Angeles’ eventual World Series run.
Since being acquired from the Miami Marlins in 2021, Vesia has quietly become one of baseball’s dependable left-handed relievers. Now a two-time World Series champion, he’s recognized not for overpowering velocity but for his deceptive delivery, precise location, and ability to perform under pressure when the Dodgers need him most. Over six seasons in Los Angeles, Vesia owns a 19-12 record with a 2.67 ERA and a WHIP near 1.00, reflecting his consistency and value to the team.
With one year left before free agency in 2027, Vesia is expected to stay a key part of a Dodgers bullpen that has faced some volatility in recent years.
Looking ahead, Los Angeles plans to seek additional relief help this winter. One potential target is Edwin Díaz, who recently chose to test free agency after opting out of his deal with the New York Mets. While the Mets could re-sign their closer, the Dodgers certainly have the payroll flexibility to make a strong offer.
The Dodgers’ recent signing of Tanner Scott to a four-year, $72 million contract after his breakout 2024 season shows how much the organization values bullpen stability. However, Scott struggled in his first year with Los Angeles, posting a 4.74 ERA in 57 innings and giving up multiple costly blown saves.
With Vesia’s return, the Dodgers at least have one reliable piece as they enter another crucial offseason. If they can combine his consistency with another top late-inning arm, their bullpen could once again become a major strength heading into 2026.