The Los Angeles Dodgers are continuously bringing in and developing talent, meaning some players are likely in their final season with the team. With one of the most talented rosters in baseball, the Dodgers dominated in 2024, securing a World Series title. Instead of maintaining their current level, they strengthened their squad even further during the offseason.
The team bolstered its starting rotation by signing pitchers Blake Snell and Roki Sasaki. Additionally, they are set to welcome back key players Shohei Ohtani, Dustin May, and Tony Gonsolin, all of whom missed the 2024 season due to injuries. On top of that, the Dodgers have several promising prospects waiting for their chance, including River Ryan, Justin Wrobleski, and Bobby Miller.
With such a deep and talented roster, Los Angeles is bound to make moves, whether through trades, free agency, or promotions from within. As a result, several players are likely entering their last season with the team. Some of them could still play important roles in 2025 before departing.
Players Who May Be in Their Final Season with the Dodgers
Catcher: Austin Barnes
One of the most obvious choices is backup catcher Austin Barnes. The 35-year-old veteran is in the final year of his contract, and with top prospect Dalton Rushing emerging as a potential replacement, Barnes’ time with the Dodgers appears to be ending.
Barnes has spent his entire 10-year MLB career with Los Angeles, playing 599 games and posting a batting line of .223/.324/.339 with 35 home runs and 60 doubles. While he has been a reliable presence, the Dodgers now have a younger, more dynamic option in Rushing.
Rushing had an outstanding 2024 season, hitting .271/.384/.512 with 26 home runs and 21 doubles in 114 games. The left-handed hitter has impressive power and strong contact skills. He can also play outfield, but given his offensive potential, the Dodgers are likely to keep him as a catcher.
Surprisingly, the Dodgers exercised Barnes’ club option for 2025, but that doesn’t mean he will remain with the team all season. It wouldn’t be surprising if he is traded before the deadline to make room for Rushing.
Right-Handed Pitcher: Michael Kopech
The Dodgers have an abundance of pitching depth, yet they acquired reliever Michael Kopech from the Chicago White Sox last season. Kopech performed well in 2024 and returned for another season in 2025.
While he is expected to contribute again, the Dodgers are likely to seek additional bullpen upgrades next offseason. The team has already added key relievers such as Kirby Yates and Tanner Scott while retaining arms like Blake Treinen and Evan Phillips. With limited space for right-handed relievers, Kopech, whose contract expires after 2025, may not return next year.
Right-Handed Pitcher: Dustin May
Dustin May’s future with the Dodgers remains uncertain, but it appears 2025 will be his final season in Los Angeles unless the team shifts him to the bullpen.
The Dodgers have a surplus of starting pitchers, so much so that Shohei Ohtani does not need to rush his return to the mound. Even franchise icon Clayton Kershaw may struggle to find innings, and top prospect Bobby Miller isn’t guaranteed a big-league spot. With so much depth, the team will likely part ways with May after this season, as they did with Walker Buehler and Jack Flaherty in the offseason.
May has endured significant challenges throughout his time with the Dodgers but remains a talented pitcher. Whether as a starter or reliever, he is expected to have a strong 2025 season. However, given the team’s depth and future plans, it is likely his last in Dodger Blue.
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