Eric Lauer Explains Controversial Bullpen Comments After Joining Dodgers

Newly added pitcher Eric Lauer is the Los Angeles Dodgers’ response to their recent run of injuries , but there are questions about his willingness to be flexible. Lauer arrived via trade from the Toronto Blue Jays, whom the Dodgers faced in the 2025 postseason. Toronto designated Lauer for assignment, and the Dodgers responded by sending out cash considerations.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dodgers Nation (@dodgersnation) The lefty has been really bad in 2026, enough so that his former team cut bait rather than let him ride out his troubles, which he has been prone to in his career. Instead, they put him on waivers and allowed him to go to a possible World Series opponent. The Dodgers are hoping to turn another man’s trash into treasure, like they have done time and time again.

May 10, 2026; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Blue Jays starting pitcher Eric Lauer (56) has a discussion with pitching coach Pete Walker (40) against the Los Angeles Angels in the fifth inning at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images His tumultuous time with the Blue Jays had more to do than just what happened on the field. Lauer’s tricky time in Toronto Lauer entered arbitration after the 2025 season, hoping to get a $5.

75 million salary for 2026, but the arbitration judge ruled that he would receive only $4. 4 million. The hurler said his time in the bullpen cost him the raise, which would have been more than $1 million, expressing a clear desire to be a regular starter rather than serve as a swingman who moves between the rotation and the bullpen.