Dodgers activate intriguing reliever after year-long absence

The Los Angeles Dodgers reinstated reliever Daniel Hudson from the 60-day injured list, optioning righty Nick Robertson to Triple-A Oklahoma City. To create space on the 40-man roster, Los Angeles designated minor league pitcher Ricky Vanasco for assignment.

Hudson is back in the big leagues almost a year to the day after tearing the ACL in his left knee. The veteran right-hander was off to an incredible start last season, posting a 2.22 ERA while striking out almost 31 percent of opponents in 25 appearances. His year was cut short when he stumbled and injured his knee attempting to field a dribbler back to the mound.

The Dodgers retained Hudson in September, guaranteeing him $6.5M while tacking on a $7.3M club option for the 2024 campaign. There was some hope he would be ready for the start of the season, but he was delayed by residual knee soreness in spring training. Hudson made five rookie ball appearances before reporting to Oklahoma City for three outings during his rehab stint (striking out five in 3 1/3 scoreless innings). Whenever he next takes the ball, Hudson will be appearing in the Majors for a 14th season.

Vanasco has been in the organization for a month. L.A. acquired him from the Texas Rangers on June 1. He only made one Double-A appearance with his new club before being DFA. The 24-year-old spent the bulk of last year in High-A with Texas, posting a 4.48 ERA through 84 1/3 frames. The Dodgers will trade him or put him on waivers within the next week.