Will Klein Steps Up as Dodgers Reshape World Series Roster
As the Los Angeles Dodgers prepared for Game 1 of the 2025 World Series against the Toronto Blue Jays at the Rogers Centre, there was both excitement and a sense of emotion around the team. A few changes were made to the Dodgers’ 26-man roster, and one of the notable updates was the inclusion of right-handed pitcher Will Klein , who has been called upon to strengthen the bullpen at a crucial moment.
Klein’s addition came as the Dodgers made adjustments following the absence of two key left-handers, Alex Vesia and Tanner Scott. Vesia, who had been one of the Dodgers’ most consistent relievers this season, was ruled out due to what the team described as a “deeply personal family matter.” The Dodgers organization emphasized that Vesia’s well-being and family come before baseball, and the decision was made not to place him on the Family Medical Emergency List to avoid adding any pressure for a potential return. Manager Dave Roberts and President of Baseball Operations Andrew Friedman both echoed the same sentiment — that this situation is much bigger than baseball.
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Scott, meanwhile, was also left off the World Series roster as he continues to recover from a minor medical procedure. According to Roberts, although Scott has thrown a few bullpen sessions, the team’s medical staff didn’t feel he was ready for the ramp-up required to perform at this level.
In their place, the Dodgers turned to Will Klein and Edgardo Henriquez — both right-handed pitchers who can bring fresh energy and depth to the bullpen. Klein, who had three separate stints with the Dodgers during the regular season, posted a solid 2.35 ERA with 21 strikeouts over 15 1/3 innings , showing an ability to handle high-pressure moments. Henriquez also returns to the roster, having appeared briefly in the postseason earlier this month.
For Klein, this is a golden opportunity — not just to prove himself, but to contribute in one of the biggest series of his career. The Dodgers’ bullpen has seen its share of challenges throughout the season, but Roberts expressed confidence in every arm at his disposal. “We have a lot of viable options,” he said. “Guys are going to have to step up, and I trust every one of them.”
As the World Series begins, the Dodgers will take the field with a mix of experience and new energy. With veterans like Clayton Kershaw in what could be his final series and emerging players like Klein ready to take on the challenge, the team’s depth will be tested against a powerful Blue Jays lineup.
While Alex Vesia’s absence will certainly be felt, the Dodgers’ focus remains clear — playing for each other, carrying the strength of their teammate in spirit, and giving everything they have on baseball’s biggest stage.
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