Dodgers Add Ronan Kopp to 40-Man Roster Ahead of Rule 5 Draft

The Los Angeles Dodgers have added left-handed pitcher Ronan Kopp to their 40-man roster, a move made before the deadline to protect players from the upcoming Rule 5 Draft scheduled for December 10, 2025. Kopp, a 23-year-old reliever, was drafted by the Dodgers in the 12th round of the 2021 MLB Draft out of South Mountain Community College in Arizona. Over the 2025 season, he posted a combined 3.43 ERA and 91 strikeouts in 57 2/3 innings across Double-A Tulsa and Triple-A Oklahoma City.

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Kopp's performance in 2025 showcased his potential as a relief pitcher. He recorded a 36% strikeout rate, ranking among the top in the Dodgers' minor league system. However, his walk rate was notably high at 16.6%, as he issued 42 walks during the season. His fastball, which reaches the mid-90s, and a hard slider were key to his success, generating whiff rates of 32% and 44%, respectively. Despite a challenging transition to Triple-A, where he initially struggled with a 6.48 ERA, Kopp rebounded in September, allowing only one run in nine innings.

Dodgers add Ronan Kopp to 40-man roster

Kopp's journey through the Dodgers' farm system has been marked by steady improvement. He began the 2025 season with a strong showing in Double-A, achieving a 2.53 ERA over 32 innings before his promotion. Over five seasons in the organization, he has accumulated a 3.25 career ERA and 381 strikeouts in 244 innings pitched. His high school coach, Tim Salmon, has drawn comparisons between Kopp and former MLB pitcher Madison Bumgarner, particularly noting Kopp's size and unique pitching delivery.

Dodgers add Ronan Kopp to 40-man roster

The Dodgers' decision to add Kopp reflects their strategy of protecting promising talent from being selected by other teams in the Rule 5 Draft. This move follows a similar strategy employed last year with pitcher Jack Dreyer, who became a significant contributor to the Dodgers' bullpen. The Dodgers currently have 39 players on their 40-man roster, leaving one spot open for potential future signings or trades.

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While Kopp's addition has been generally well-received, some analysts have pointed out concerns regarding his high walk rate, which could hinder his effectiveness at the Major League level. Critics argue that while his strikeout ability is impressive, his control issues must be addressed for him to succeed in the Dodgers' bullpen.

Dodgers add Ronan Kopp to 40-man roster

As the Dodgers prepare for the Rule 5 Draft, Kopp's inclusion on the roster positions him as a potential asset for the upcoming season. The organization will continue to evaluate his development during the offseason, aiming to refine his control and maximize his impact in the bullpen.

Dodgers 40-Man Roster: Ronan Kopp Protected From 2025 MLB Rule 5 Draft

• “3 per nine innings throughout his five seasons in the Dodgers’ farm system.” — Dodgers Digest

Orange County Register

• “Kopp’s high school coach in the Phoenix area was former Angels outfielder Tim Salmon, who compared Kopp to former San Francisco Giants ace Madison Bumgarner, in part because of his size and unusual delivery.” — Dodgers Way

Orange County Register

• “LOS ANGELES — The Dodgers added a left-handed relief pitcher to their 40-man roster again Tuesday, before the deadline to protect him from next month’s Rule 5 draft It worked out pretty well last year.” — OC Register

Orange County Register