Dodgers Secure Contracts with Seby Zavala and Jordan Weems

The Los Angeles Dodgers have announced their roster for the upcoming Spring Training, featuring 32 non-roster invitees. Among the notable new additions are catcher Seby Zavala and reliever Jordan Weems. Both players have joined the Dodgers on minor league contracts.

Dodgers Secure Contracts with Seby Zavala and Jordan Weems

Jordan Weems, a 33-year-old right-handed reliever, brings considerable experience to the mound. He has pitched in the MLB for six consecutive seasons, although his performance last year was limited to just four appearances with the Houston Astros. During these outings, he allowed seven runs over 4 1/3 innings, resulting in a career earned run average of 5.51 across 160 innings pitched. Last season, Weems spent the bulk of his time with the Astros and Braves’ Triple-A teams, posting a 4.44 ERA in 46 2/3 innings while striking out 24% of batters faced.

Seby Zavala, a right-handed hitting catcher, also adds depth to the Dodgers’ squad. At 32 years old, he has previously played 194 games in the MLB. Known primarily for his defensive skills, Zavala struggled at the plate last season while playing in Triple-A for the Boston Red Sox, finishing with a .164/.273/.333 batting line and a strikeout rate of 36%.

Current Catching Prospects

The Dodgers face competition for catching roles this spring. Ben Rortvedt has been reclaimed from the Cincinnati Reds and is vying for the backup position behind Will Smith. However, second-year player Dalton Rushing is seen as the frontrunner for that role. Should Rortvedt not secure a spot, Zavala and Chuckie Robinson will be the most experienced options available.

Additional Non-Roster Invitees

Alongside Zavala and Weems, several other players have received non-roster invitations:

• Wyatt Mills
• Carlos Duran
• Antoine Kelly

Wyatt Mills, who struggled with a 6.21 ERA split between the Mariners and Royals from 2021 to 2022, signed a minor league contract last August. Carlos Duran and Antoine Kelly, both power arms, will provide additional bullpen depth. Duran, who debuted with the Oakland Athletics last season, had issues with command, walking nearly 19% of opponents. Kelly, known for his fastball velocity, also battled control problems with a 5.63 ERA last year.

This Spring Training will be crucial for these players as they strive to secure their places on the Dodgers’ roster for the upcoming season.