Dodgers Bring Back RHP Nick Frasso on Minor League Deal

While fans in Los Angeles have been praising Edwin Diaz’s dominant performances, the Dodgers have quietly continued to refine their roster ahead of the 2026 season. The organization has focused on building depth through the waiver wire and minor signings, aiming to strengthen the system around the edges of the roster.

Among these moves, the Dodgers have brought back right-handed pitcher Nick Frasso on a minor league deal, according to Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic. Frasso, a talented prospect who has battled injuries, was non-tendered last month but remains a part of the organization.

Frasso was originally drafted in the fourth round of the 2020 MLB Draft out of Loyola Marymount University by the Toronto Blue Jays. He was later traded to the Dodgers in 2022 alongside Moises Brito in exchange for Mitch White and Alex De Jesus. Though added to the 40-man roster in 2023, Frasso has yet to make his major league debut due to injury setbacks.

After undergoing labrum surgery in late 2023 that sidelined him for all of 2024, Frasso pitched for the Dodgers’ Triple-A affiliate, Oklahoma City, in 2025. He appeared in 43 games, compiling a 6-1 record with a 5.49 ERA before landing on the injured list in September. His return to the Dodgers on a minor league deal keeps his MLB future open as the team evaluates his readiness.

1. Frasso’s Background and Draft History

Nick Frasso has long been viewed as a high-upside pitching prospect, combining size, arm strength, and advanced pitching mechanics. Drafted by the Blue Jays in 2020, he quickly rose through the minor league system thanks to his strikeout potential and composure on the mound. The 2022 trade to Los Angeles provided a fresh opportunity, pairing him with Moises Brito in exchange for established MLB depth. The Dodgers added him to their 40-man roster in 2023, signaling that they viewed him as a potential contributor at the major league level once healthy. Injuries, however, have delayed Frasso’s ascent. A labrum surgery in late 2023 cost him the entire 2024 season, forcing the Dodgers to recalibrate his development timeline. Despite these setbacks, Frasso’s performance prior to injury demonstrated his potential to be a reliable arm in the rotation or bullpen. His experience in the minor leagues and history of overcoming adversity make Frasso an intriguing addition for Los Angeles. The organization will monitor his progress closely to determine whether he can eventually break into the MLB roster.

2. 2025 Performance in Triple-A

In 2025, Frasso joined the Dodgers’ Triple-A affiliate, Oklahoma City, where he appeared in 43 games. He finished with a 6-1 record and a 5.49 ERA, showcasing moments of dominance while also revealing areas for improvement as he returned from injury. His usage primarily in relief allowed the Dodgers to manage his innings while evaluating his readiness for a higher level. Frasso’s strikeout ability and velocity flashes were promising signs, indicating he could adapt to higher-level competition in the near future. September brought another hurdle when Frasso landed on the injured list, underscoring the ongoing challenge of maintaining health. The Dodgers will be particularly careful in managing his workload to prevent setbacks and maximize his developmental potential. Overall, the 2025 campaign provided both optimism and caution. Frasso proved he can handle a full season of professional innings but still requires refinement and consistent health to reach the major league level.

3. Outlook with the Dodgers in 2026

The minor league contract brings Frasso back into the Dodgers’ system, giving the team flexibility to evaluate his performance in spring training and beyond. While he has not yet made his MLB debut, he remains a potential contributor for Los Angeles in the near future. Dodgers management will likely focus on building Frasso’s strength and consistency, ensuring that he can sustain innings and maintain velocity while reducing the risk of reinjury. His development will be closely monitored at Triple-A or in other minor league assignments. For the Dodgers, Frasso represents low-risk, high-reward depth. If he can return to form and stay healthy, he could provide valuable innings in the bullpen or possibly compete for a rotation spot, adding another homegrown arm to the pitching pipeline. Ultimately, 2026 will be a pivotal year for Frasso as he attempts to finally make his MLB debut and validate the team’s investment in his talent and potential. Fans and management alike will be watching closely to see if he can seize the opportunity.