Dodgers release pitcher early in 2026 season

Undoubtedly, the Los Angeles Dodgers have a loaded pitching staff. Shohei Ohtani, Tyler Glasnow, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, and Blake Snell, to name a few. Unfortunately, right-hander Nick Nastrini isn’t going to be a part of it.

On Thursday, the organization announced that Nastrini was being released after one start in the minors, per Leo Morgenstern of MLB Trade Rumors. He made that one appearance with the Tulsa Drillers, L.A.’s Double-A affiliate. Ultimately, Nastrini didn’t get anybody out and walked three batters.

As a result, his future is up in the air.

In 2021, Nastrini was drafted by the Dodgers as the 131st overall pick. During that time, he made his way around the minor leagues.

In 2023, Nastrini was traded to the Chicago White Sox, along with Trayce Thompson and Jordan Leasure. At the same time, the Dodgers received Lance Lynn and Joe Kelly.

Last year, Nastrini pitched an entire season with the White Sox. In total, he went 0-7 with a 7.07 ERA and 26 strikeouts. Additionally, he walked 36 batters, gave up 32 hits, and gave up 28 earned runs.

At the same time, the White Sox finished dead last in the AL Central with a 41-121 record.

Since then, Nastrini hasn’t pitched in the majors since September 2024. Last July, he was claimed by the Miami Marlins before Los Angeles claimed him off waivers.

In the minor leagues, Nastrini pitched for three different organizations and compiled an 8.56 ERA in 47.1 innings pitched. Plus, he walked 50 batters and struck out 49.

Meanwhile, Los Angeles is 9-3 to start the 2026 season, looking to go for a 3-peat as World Series champions.