Dodgers News: Kyle Hurt Optioned After Impressive MLB Debut, Joe Kelly Returns

The veteran is back in the pen.

After a lengthy absence due to a forearm issue, one of the Dodgers' best veteran relievers is getting back to action for Dave Roberts' bullpen. 

Joe Kelly, who was a key piece brought in at the deadline by LA, will have a chance to build himself back up for an October run in the next few weeks. 

The candidate to be demoted back to the minors was Kyle Hurt, an unfortunate outcome after his dominant performance in Tuesday night's win. 

The Dodgers activated RHP Joe Kelly from the injured list and optioned RHP Kyle Hurt.

— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) September 13, 2023

In two innings of relief after one of Lance Lynn's best starts in Dodger blue, Hurt threw just 24 pitches and sat down all six batters he faced in short, efficient order. 

Striking out the side in the ninth inning, it was a great moment for the young man who's currently atop the minor league leaderboard for strikeout rate across all levels. 

While the demotion will sting for the rookie arm, it's likely best that the Dodgers get a more veteran option back to their ranks for the postseason push. 

Manager Dave Roberts even said Hurt wouldn't be auditioning for a role in October, but simply helping some injury concerns across the bullpen. 

Now that one of those concerns has been alleviated with Kelly back to the mound very quickly, Hurt's spot on the bump will have to wait. 

Kelly in his limited appearances before his injury was lights out in his return back to Chavez Ravine. 

Earning seven strikeouts across his first three plus innings of work, the most notable of his punchouts came by running a pitch inside to Fernando Tatis Jr. and then striking him out a few pitches later on the road in San Diego. 

Ever the showman, Kelly's bobblehead night at Dodger Stadium is also coming soon which will be perfect timing for Mariachi Joe to get back to LA's late inning work.