The Los Angeles Dodgers have recently finalized a significant trade, acquiring left-handed pitcher Kris Bubic from the Kansas City Royals in exchange for right-hander Carlos Durán. This strategic acquisition is part of the Dodgers' ongoing efforts to reinforce their pitching rotation, adding another southpaw arm to their roster. The trade also serves to open up a crucial 40-man roster position for the team.
Kris Bubic, despite exhibiting a 4.11 ERA and a 4.53 xERA in his nine starts for the Royals this season, has been sidelined since mid-May due to a left elbow issue. Following a brief rehabilitation period with Triple-A Omaha, he experienced further setbacks with shoulder discomfort, leading to his placement on the 60-day injured list in early July. Last season, Bubic had a standout performance, recording a 2.55 ERA and a 3.17 xERA over 20 starts, an impressive run that was unfortunately curtailed by a rotator cuff strain.
The Royals' manager, Matt Quatraro, expressed concern over Bubic's persistent discomfort, noting in July that despite extensive medical evaluations and imaging, no clear structural issue had been identified. Quatraro emphasized Bubic's self-awareness regarding his physical condition, which prevented him from continuing to pitch, highlighting the perplexing nature of his injury. Bubic's current contract, valued at $6.15 million for the year, means the Dodgers will cover approximately $1.84 million for the remainder of the season, as he is set to become a free agent at the season's conclusion.
On the other side of the trade, Carlos Durán, a product of the Dodgers' farm system, had previously been traded to the Athletics in April 2025 as part of a deal for outfielder Esteury Ruiz. After a single major league appearance with the A's in 2025, Durán rejoined the Dodgers on a minor league contract in December. He was subsequently added to the 40-man roster on July 6 this year, although he has yet to make a major league appearance this season. In Triple-A Oklahoma City, Durán has maintained a 3.38 ERA across 37 games, accumulating 61 strikeouts and 28 walks over 42 2/3 innings, along with two saves.
This transaction allows the Dodgers to secure a pitcher with a demonstrated track record of success, albeit one currently navigating injury challenges, while also creating roster flexibility. The exchange of Bubic for Durán reflects a strategic move by both teams to address their respective needs as the trade deadline approaches.
