The Los Angeles Dodgers face a tough call on pitcher Jake Cousins, who is entering his second year of arbitration.
Cousins hasn't pitched a single inning in the big leagues in two years since his 2025 Tommy John surgery.
The Dodgers will need to pay Cousins around $1 million in arbitration, according to MLB Trade Rumors' projections.
He still has another year of team control beyond 2027, making him relatively affordable to keep around.
Oct 19, 2024; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; New York Yankees pitcher Jake Cousins (61) celebrates the final out of the eighth inning against the Cleveland Guardians during game five of the ALCS for the 2024 MLB playoffs at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-Imagn Images
The Dodgers signed Cousins in free agency right when the season started , after the Yankees non-tendered him. He was still rehabbing when he signed with the Dodgers.
When he was last in the majors, he was posting a 2.37 ERA with the New York Yankees in 2024.
After diligent rehab, Cousins was healthy enough to pitch in the minors this year . He made six Triple-A appearances, posting a 10.38 ERA on four hits and five walks.
The Dodgers did not add Cousins to the postseason roster or rush him up to the majors for a few regular-season appearances.
Jan 22, 2025; Los Angeles, CA, USA; L-R; Los Angeles Dodgers General Manager Brandon Gomes talks with manager Dave Roberts (30) during a press conference at Dodger Stadium.
If they still believe in Cousins and his ability to contribute, they can just keep him on the 40-man roster and pay him his arbitration price tag.
However, because he takes up a 40-man roster spot ahead of the Rule 5 Draft, the Dodgers need to decide whether his health or play makes him viable to pitch innings next year.
The Dodgers could always release him and avoid paying anything, as he will be a free agent.
Either way, their faith in Cousins and where he stands will get its first dose of clarity.
