The Dodgers’ offseason roster math is already getting tight, and that means some familiar names could be squeezed out before spring arrives.
Los Angeles has prospects that will need 40-man protection before the Rule 5 Draft, and that’s before any trades or free-agent additions enter the picture. With room needed for new arrivals and possible re-signings, the Dodgers may have to make uncomfortable calls on players they still value.
Landon Knack is one of the clearest names to watch. He is out of minor league options, so the Dodgers can’t just shuttle him back and forth anymore. Given the club’s depth and the number of young arms in the system, it would be a surprise if he’s still on the roster by the first game of the 2027 season.
Paul Gervase is a different case. He still has option years left, and at 26, he could stick around as depth if the Dodgers don’t bring in too many new pieces.
But he hasn’t really locked down a spot at any level over the past year and a half, which makes him one of the easier players for the team to move on from. If he clears waivers, he could remain in the organization.
Eliezer Alfonzo may also be in a tricky spot, though the Dodgers have some flexibility with him. As the fourth catcher, he’d be an obvious DFA candidate, but since Rushing won’t be catching for months and Alfonzo can be optioned freely, the team may keep him around for now. If the roster gets too crowded, though, the Dodgers could still make the move and sort out another answer later.
Ronan Kopp is another name that stands out because he has yet to pitch in the majors. That makes him easier to part with, especially after a rough year in Triple-A.
In 47 games, he posted a 6.80 ERA with 51 strikeouts and 43 walks. For a pitcher trying to force his way into the picture, that’s a tough season to carry into the winter.
The Dodgers could still try to get a look at him in the big leagues, but he looks dispensable.
Ben Casparius is probably not the most likely player to be designated for assignment, but he’s not completely safe either. He struggled to a 9.64 ERA in 4.2 major league innings before a shoulder injury ended that run.
Back in Triple-A, he posted a 7.84 ERA in 12 appearances. Right shoulder inflammation led to a three-month shutdown, and after he returned to pitch in the minors, he was shut down again because of arm fatigue.
If the Dodgers aren’t convinced about where he stands health-wise or performance-wise, they could DFA him or explore a trade.
Seth Halvorsen may be the least likely of the group to go, largely because he’s had less than a full year with the Dodgers coaching staff. Still, roster pressure can change plans fast.
He worked to a 5.90 ERA in 32 major league games in 2026, but he also brings a triple-digit sinker that should generate ground balls. In Triple-A OKC, he allowed no runs in 10 appearances.
The Dodgers would probably like to keep Project Halvorsen going for another year, but a crowded roster could force their hand. He still has minor league options, and there’s plenty of upside on paper.
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The Dodgers have already shown they are willing to think ahead, and the next step may involve leaning more heavily on younger talent from a farm system that has given them real options. Freemans decline in power, speed and defense makes the decision more complicated, because this is not just about sentiment or legacy, but about how long the Dodgers can keep one of their most trusted veterans at the center of their plans. [Read more 🡒]