The Los Angeles Dodgers boast as much talent as any team in the league. In 2024, they had the most stacked roster, which propelled them to a dominant World Series victory. Rather than regressing in the offseason, the Dodgers actually strengthened their squad.
They added Blake Snell and Roki Sasaki to their starting rotation while also preparing for the returns of Shohei Ohtani, Dustin May, and Tony Gonsolin, all of whom missed the 2024 season due to injuries. On top of that, the Dodgers have a wave of top prospects like River Ryan, Justin Wrobleski, and Bobby Miller ready to make an impact.
Simply put, Los Angeles is loaded with talent and still improving. Whether through trades, free agency, or the rise of young prospects, some current players are entering their final season with the team—some of whom could play key roles in 2025.
Which Dodgers players are going into their final season with the team?
C Austin Barnes
The first player likely entering his final season with the Los Angeles Dodgers is backup catcher Austin Barnes. At 35 years old, Barnes is in the last year of his contract, with the Dodgers exercising their $3.5 million club option for the 2025 season. citeturn0search11 Over his 10-year MLB career, all with the Dodgers, Barnes has played 599 games, posting a .223 batting average, a .324 on-base percentage, a .339 slugging percentage, 35 home runs, and 60 doubles.
The primary reason for Barnes’ potential departure is the emergence of top prospect Dalton Rushing. Rushing, a 24-year-old left-handed hitter, showcased his offensive prowess in 2024 by slashing .271/.384/.512 with 26 home runs and 21 doubles over 114 games. His elite power and strong bat-to-ball skills make him a valuable asset.
While Rushing has also spent time at first base and in the outfield, his offensive profile suggests he could serve as an offensive-minded starting catcher in the near future.
Given Rushing’s rapid development and the Dodgers’ depth at the catcher position, it wouldn’t be surprising if Barnes is off the roster by the trade deadline. Rushing is on the cusp of making his major league debut, and the Dodgers may look to integrate his bat into their lineup soon.
RHP Michael Kopech
The Dodgers have bolstered their bullpen by acquiring standout reliever Michael Kopech from the Chicago White Sox last season. Kopech delivered an impressive performance in 2024, recording a 1.13 ERA and six saves over 24 appearances, contributing significantly to the Dodgers’ World Series championship.
In January 2025, the Dodgers and Kopech agreed to a one-year, $5.2 million contract to avoid arbitration. With this agreement, Kopech is set to become a free agent after the 2025 season.
The Dodgers’ bullpen is deep, featuring right-handers like Kirby Yates, Blake Treinen, and Evan Phillips, as well as left-hander Tanner Scott. Given this depth and Kopech’s contract status, it’s uncertain whether the Dodgers will retain him beyond this season.
RHP Dustin May
Dustin May’s future with the Los Angeles Dodgers appears uncertain as he enters the 2025 season on a one-year, $2.135 million contract, his final year before free agency.
After missing the entire 2024 season due to elbow surgery and an esophageal procedure, May is expected to contribute significantly in 2025, regardless of his role. However, with the Dodgers’ rotation boasting depth—including Clayton Kershaw, Shohei Ohtani, Tony Gonsolin, and recent acquisition Roki Sasaki—
May’s opportunities may be limited. This surplus of starting pitchers could lead the Dodgers to explore moving May to the bullpen or, if he remains in the rotation, potentially part ways with him after the season.
