usatoday
The Los Angeles Dodgers have made a single change to their National League Championship Series roster, opting to add left-handed pitcher Justin Wrobleski to the 26-man squad while removing infielder Hyeseong Kim. The adjustment means the Dodgers will carry 13 pitchers for the best-of-seven series, which starts Sunday in Milwaukee.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts explained the rationale behind the decision a day before Game 1, stating, "Having a guy that can go two or three, is something where you essentially protect downside on the pitching." He added, "I think for us it's more of who can take down a couple innings if something in a medium to lower leverage situation."
Wrobleski, who was an All-Star starting pitcher this season, shifted to a bulk relief role in September to prepare for the postseason. The left-hander appeared in four scoreless games during the 2025 World Series, including the Game 6 and 7 victories in Toronto that clinched the Dodgers' second straight title.
Kim, 27, is in his second season with the Dodgers after arriving from Korea. He made one appearance in the NLDS against Atlanta as a defensive replacement.
Infielder Miguel Rojas, who exited Game 4 of the NLDS due to lower back tightness, is on the roster as expected.
Key Analysis
The Dodgers' decision to carry an extra pitcher reflects a strategic emphasis on pitching depth for the NLCS. By swapping Kim for Wrobleski, the team gains flexibility to cover multiple innings in relief, potentially mitigating risks in medium- to low-leverage situations. Wrobleski's postseason experience, including his contributions in the 2025 World Series, adds a proven arm to the bullpen. Meanwhile, Kim's speed and defensive skills will be missed, but the move underscores the Dodgers' priority on pitching durability as they aim for another deep October run.
Dodgers NLCS Roster
Pitchers: Kris Bubic (LHP), Edwin Díaz (RHP), Tyler Glasnow (RHP), Edgardo Henriquez (RHP), Evan Phillips (RHP), Roki Sasaki (RHP), Tanner Scott (LHP), Tarik Skubal (LHP), Blake Snell (LHP), Brock Stewart (RHP), Alex Vesia (LHP), Justin Wrobleski (LHP), Yoshinobu Yamamoto (RHP)
Hitters: Mookie Betts (INF), Josue De Paula (OF), Tommy Edman (UTL), Hunter Feduccia (C), Freddie Freeman (1B), Kiké Hernández (UTL), Teoscar Hernández (OF), Max Muncy (INF), Shohei Ohtani (DH), Andy Pages (OF), Miguel Rojas (INF), Will Smith (C), Kyle Tucker (OF)
Originally reported by usatoday.