Dodgers news: Kris Bubic joining LA as playoffs draw near, but there's a catch

The Los Angeles Dodgers have acquired left-handed pitcher Kris Bubic before the 2026 MLB trade deadline. Bubic is a former All-Star who will join the Dodgers on Monday, but he is not being activated from the injured list yet due to ongoing rehab appearances. Bubic earned an All-Star selection in 2025 with the Kansas City Royals, finishing the season with a solid 2.55 ERA over 20 games.

So far in 2026, he has recorded a 4.11 ERA across nine starts with Kansas City. Despite his injury concerns, the Dodgers took a chance on him, and he could potentially make an impact down the stretch. The Dodgers currently lead the National League West standings by nine games over the San Diego Padres. They are also competing for the best record in the league, currently standing at 90-59, just behind the Milwaukee Brewers who have 93-57. The Dodgers will begin their series against the Reds on Monday night at 6:40 PM ET in Cincinnati.