

The Los Angeles Dodgers are bringing back right-handed reliever Yency Almonte on a minor-league contract, according to Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic.
The veteran reliever is expected to participate in major-league spring training at Camelback Ranch in Glendale, Arizona, as he attempts to earn a roster spot for the upcoming season.
This marks Almonte’s second stint with Los Angeles after previously pitching for the club during the 2022 and 2023 seasons.
His performance was stronger in 2022, when he emerged as a leverage option for Dodgers manager Dave Roberts, though he would see regression the following year.
Following the 2023 season, the Dodgers traded Almonte to the Chicago Cubs as part of a deal that also included infielder Michael Busch.
In return, Los Angeles acquired prospects Zyhir Hope and Jackson Ferris, both of whom remain developing in the organization.
Hope has since gained recognition as one of baseball's rising prospects by MLB.com, ranked as high as No. 27.
Almonte’s tenure in Chicago was impacted heavily by injuries. A shoulder issue limited his availability during the 2024 season, preventing him from building consistent momentum.
After being removed from the Cubs’ 40-man roster later that year, he returned to the organization on a minor-league contract but again struggled to stay healthy in 2025, appearing in a limited number of games.
Earlier in his career, Almonte also spent multiple seasons with the Colorado Rockies, where he worked in a variety of bullpen roles while continuing to develop his pitch mix.
His experience across several organizations has given him versatility, something that could help his case as he competes for a bullpen role in Los Angeles.
The Dodgers already feature a deep relief core entering 2026, highlighted by established arms such as Edwin Díaz, Tanner Scott, Blake Treinen, and Alex Vesia.
Because of that depth, Almonte is not guaranteed a roster spot but will have the opportunity to compete during camp.
If he does not make the major league roster, then Almonte could serve as experienced depth for the organization’s Triple-A affiliate, the Oklahoma City Dodgers.
For Los Angeles, the signing represents a low-risk move that brings back a familiar arm with prior success in the club’s bullpen system.
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