Dodgers Add Outfield Depth, Claim Jack Suwinski Off Waivers from Pirates
Los Angeles takes a low-risk swing on the power-hitting outfielder after Pittsburgh cut ties.
GLENDALE, AZ—Before the Los Angeles Dodgers open up the 2026 Cactus League play with Game No. 1 versus the Los Angeles Angels, the team has reportedly claimed outfielder Jack Suwinski off waivers from the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Suwinski, 27, was recently DFA’d to make room on the Pirates’ 40-man roster for their signing of veteran designated hitter Marcell Ozuna, who inked a 1-year, $12 million contract with the Buccos in mid-February.
After a breakout year in his age-24 season in 2023, when the left-handed hitter hit 26 home runs in 144 games and posted a 2.1 bWAR, his following two seasons were less productive. In 2024, he slashed .182/.264/.324 over 88 games, and last year he hit .147/.281/.253 in 59 games.
Due to Suwinski’s struggles last season, the Pirates optioned him to Triple-A twice, along with missing some time on the injured list with a separate groin issue.
Funny enough, Suwinski played very well versus Los Angeles in his career, hitting .314 with 16 hits, 5 home runs, and 10 RBIs in 15 games.
It remains unclear how Suwinski will fit into the Dodgers’ plans. Currently, Alex Call, who was acquired from the Washington Nationals last July before their second straight World Series win, serves as the main backup outfielder on the team's depth chart.
Call posted a 112 OPS+ last year, but can be sent to the minors. The Dodgers’ 40-man roster is full, but placing him on the 60-day injured list could free up a spot.
With Suwinski being claimed off waivers, the Dodgers will have to clear a spot on their 40-man roster, which will likely involve transferring veteran utilityman Kiké Hernández, as he eyes a mid-season return after rehabbing from offseason elbow surgery.
I still don't understand how he will fit into the org. Please explain this one.