Injury-ravaged former Dodgers pitcher eyes shocking MLB comeback

Michael Kopech is preparing to return to Major League Baseball after missing the 2026 season while recovering from a knee injury. The former Dodgers reliever is due to throw for teams on Saturday, giving clubs a chance to assess whether he can again be an effective option in the bullpen.

Kopech last pitched in 2025, when he managed 11 innings with a 2.45 ERA amid multiple injuries. Los Angeles acquired him in a 2024 trade, and he posted a 1.13 ERA over 24 innings for the Dodgers after the trade deadline, helping their World Series run alongside Tommy Edman. He remained unsigned throughout 2026; if he has regained his form, he could attract a new team this off-season.