Los Angeles Dodgers designate Mat Latos for assignment

Jeff Passan of Yahoo! Sports reports that the Los Angeles Dodgers have designated pitcher Mat Latos for assignment. No corresponding roster move has been made at this point.

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Latos was a significant part of the blockbuster three-team trade that also brought Alex Wood, Jim Johnson, Luis Avilan and Jose Peraza to Los Angeles in July. The Dodgers ultimately gave up Hector Olivera, Paco Rodriguez as well as a competitive balance pick in the deal, but haven’t seen much of a return on their investment. Wood has been serviceable, pitching to a 3.83 ERA in nine starts with the Dodgers, but Latos, Johnson and Avilan have all struggled heavily since the trade. Peraza has also put up underwhelming numbers, though the book is still out on him as he’s played just seven big-league games since joining L.A.

After being traded to Miami this winter, Latos pitched to a 4.48 ERA in 16 starts, though his 3.42 FIP suggested he pitched much better than his numbers suggested. Things got worse after his move to the Dodgers, however, as he pitched his way out of the starting rotation and ultimately, off the roster.

Latos entered the 2015 season seemingly set to cash in on a big contract in free agency this offseason, but is now likely staring at a one-year deal where he’ll look to reestablish his value.Still just 27 years old, the three-time 14-game winner could still find himself in prime position for a healthy long-term deal next offseason if he returns to form in 2016. If he goes unclaimed, he’ll end up a free agent, though clubs in need of pitching depth down the stretch could look at adding Latos to the mix. He won’t be eligible to pitch in the postseason, however.

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