Dodgers call up flamethrower Edgardo Henriquez

Edgardo Henriquez, a 22-year-old right-handed pitcher, has made a swift ascent to the major leagues, primarily due to his impressive fastball velocity. This season, he has averaged 99.7 mph, with a standout pitch recorded at 104 mph during his time with Double-A Tulsa. His rapid rise through the Dodgers' minor league system included stints at five different levels, culminating in his addition to the major league roster in the final week of the regular season. Henriquez's performance in the minors has been notable, logging a 2.72 ERA over 53 innings, which is particularly impressive considering it is his first season post-Tommy John surgery. However, concerns about his strike-throwing, especially during his last appearance with Oklahoma City, pose a risk for the Dodgers as they integrate him into their bullpen. The team is aware of the potential volatility but sees the opportunity as worth the gamble. The Dodgers had to add Henriquez to their 40-man roster by December to protect him from the Rule 5 draft, making his call-up timely. His eligibility for the postseason adds another layer of intrigue, as he can still be included in the playoff roster due to his presence in the organization by the August 31 deadline. This strategic move could provide the Dodgers with a significant advantage as they aim to solidify their position in the NL West. As the Dodgers face the San Diego Padres, the timing of Henriquez's debut is critical. Manager Dave Roberts emphasized the importance of winning games to secure their division lead, and the addition of a fresh arm in the bullpen could be pivotal in their efforts to close out the season strong.