The Los Angeles Dodgers announced several roster changes as they set their 40-man lineup for the offseason. Among the key moves: pitcher Tony Gonsolin was designated for assignment, while outfielder Justin Dean and right-hander Michael Grove were placed on waivers.
Gonsolin, an All-Star in 2022 with a record of 16–1 and a 2.14 ERA over 24 starts, has faced significant injury challenges in recent years. He underwent Tommy John surgery in 2023, missing the entire 2024 season, and required another elbow procedure in August 2025 after seven starts earlier that year. He entered his final year of arbitration eligibility this winter.
Outfielder Justin Dean was claimed by the San Francisco Giants. Dean appeared only as a defensive replacement during the postseason. In the 2025 regular season, he batted .289 with 27 stolen bases across 90 games for Triple-A Oklahoma City. Prior to joining the Dodgers, Dean spent six years in the Atlanta Braves’ minor league system without reaching the majors.
Right-hander Michael Grove, who served as a swingman across three seasons for Los Angeles, compiled a 7–7 record and a 5.48 ERA. He missed the entire 2025 season following shoulder surgery in March to repair a torn labrum.
The Dodgers added outfielder Ryan Ward and left-hander Robinson Ortiz to their 40-man roster. Ward, the 2025 Pacific Coast League MVP, was an eighth-round pick in 2019 and spent much of the past three seasons with Triple-A Oklahoma City. Ortiz was recognized for his steady development as a left-handed arm within the Dodgers’ system.
"An All-Star in 2022, Gonsolin has had two elbow surgeries since then, missing all of 2024 and most of 2025."
Author’s Summary: The Dodgers restructured their roster, parting ways with Tony Gonsolin, Justin Dean, and Michael Grove while elevating top prospects Ryan Ward and Robinson Ortiz to protect them for the offseason.