LA DFA former All-Star Tony Gonsolin

The Los Angeles Dodgers indicated right-handed pitcher Tony Gonolin for the assignment on Thursday, ending his six-year tenure with the team. The move was part of an order that included adding outfielder Ryan Ward and left-handed pitcher Robinson Ortiz to the 40-man roster, while outfielder Justin Dean and right-handed pitcher Michael Grove were moved to Triple-A (h/t Bob Nightengale of USA Today ).

Injuries over the past three seasons have limited Gonsolin’s playing time. A ninth-round pick by Los Angeles in 2016 out of Saint Mary’s College, he made his MLB debut in 2019, posting a 2.93 ERA in 40 innings. In 2020, he continued his strong performance with a 2.31 ERA in 46.2 innings. The 31-year-old’s career peaked in 2022, when he earned his first and only All-Star selection after a 16-1 record with a 2.14 ERA and 119 strikeouts in 130.1 innings that positioned him as a top Cy Young candidate before injuries derailed his momentum.

The right-hander underwent Tommy John surgery in September 2023 and missed the entire 2024 season. He returned in 2025, but suffered a back injury during spring training that delayed his season debut. Gonsolin ended up making seven starts in 2025, compiling a 3-2 record with a 5.00 ERA and 38 strikeouts in 36 innings. before undergoing another elbow surgery in Augustwhich included an internal prosthesis procedure and flexor tendon repair. This latest procedure is expected to keep him out for most, if not all, of the 2026 season.

During his six years with the Dodgers, Gonsolin compiled a 3.34 ERA in 411.2 innings, including 387 strikeouts and 149 walks in 86 games (78 starts). He won three World Series rings and posted a 6.1 fVAR, but repeated injuries ultimately limited his availability and effectiveness.

Los Angeles’ roster moves indicate a focus on protecting emerging talent. Ward, 27, had a breakout season with Triple-A Oklahoma City, winning the Pacific Coast League MVP after hitting .290/.380/.557 with 36 home runs, 122 RBIs and 315 total bases. Ortiz, 25, has spent most of his career in the Dodgers’ minor league system, posting a 2.73 ERA with 72 strikeouts in 59.1 innings over 48 games in 2025.

With Gonsolin now off the roster, he is arbitration-eligible and is projected to make at least $5.4 million in 2026, though his recovery timeline may affect opportunities. Los Angeles, meanwhile, continues to operate a team looking to defend its 2026 World Series title.