Los Angeles Dodgers Make Key Roster Changes Following Austin Barnes’ Injury

The Los Angeles Dodgers have made some significant roster adjustments after veteran catcher Austin Barnes was placed on the 10-day injured list due to a fractured left big toe. As a replacement for Barnes, catcher Hunter Feduccia has been recalled from the Triple-A Oklahoma City.

Austin Barnes: A Season Interrupted by Injury

Barnes was part of the action in Sunday night’s game against the Atlanta Braves. However, he was substituted by the team’s primary catcher, Will Smith, during the fifth inning. Following the game, Barnes underwent X-ray examinations on his injured left big toe. The imaging revealed a fresh fracture, located differently from the one he suffered a month ago.

At 34 years old, Barnes has participated in 52 games in the 2024 season, marking his 10th year with the Dodgers. Despite his injuries, Barnes has managed to maintain a .261 batting average with one home run and 11 RBIs. He’s also proved his versatility by playing both as a catcher and at second base.

Hunter Feduccia: A Rising Star

At 27, Feduccia has already made his mark on the major league. Earlier this year, he made his debut and has since played in two games for the Dodgers. His first appearance was as a pinch hitter on July 31, followed by a start as a catcher on Aug. 25 against Tampa Bay. Feduccia boasts a .284 batting average with six home runs and 50 RBIs in his 82 games for Oklahoma City this year.

Joe Kelly to Rejoin the Dodgers

In other team news, Dodgers’ manager Dave Roberts announced that relief pitcher Joe Kelly, who was out due to a shoulder injury, will rejoin the team. Kelly is expected to be activated later this week when the Dodgers face off against the Miami Marlins.