In a significant move to bolster their roster for the 2025 season, the Los Angeles Dodgers have signed a new player, former New York Yankees and Mets pitcher Steven Ridings. This acquisition is not just about talent; it also reflects a story of resilience and determination that resonates with baseball fans everywhere.
At 29, Ridings is looking for a fresh start in Major League Baseball after a challenging journey that has included stints outside the limelight. Most recently, he played for the Highpoint Rockers in the Atlantic League, where he demonstrated impressive skills with a 3.06 ERA and 41 strikeouts over 32.1 innings pitched. While he primarily served as a starter last season, Ridings comes to the Dodgers with experience as a reliever, which could be a valuable asset as he vies for a spot on the main roster.
Ridings’ path to this opportunity has been anything but straightforward. In 2020, the cancellation of the Minor League season due to the COVID-19 pandemic forced him to seek alternative employment to support himself. He took on the role of a substitute teacher at Palm Beach Maritime Academy in Florida, balancing his time between classroom duties and rigorous training. His commitment to his dream of returning to professional baseball never wavered, even as he managed classes and maintained discipline among students.
His dedication paid off when he began training at a facility managed by Eric Cressey, the Yankees’ director of player health and performance. This training led to a brief but promising stint with the Yankees in 2021, where he recorded a 1.80 ERA in five appearances. Despite the limited opportunity, Ridings showed glimpses of his potential, striking out seven batters and allowing only two walks in five innings.
Now, with the Dodgers, Ridings will begin his journey in the team’s Triple-A affiliate in Oklahoma City. If he can replicate or improve upon his previous performances, there is a strong possibility that he could earn a call-up to the Dodgers’ bullpen during the season. The Dodgers’ front office is known for its keen eye for talent, and Ridings’ story of perseverance and skill aligns perfectly with the team’s ethos.
As fans eagerly await the upcoming season, this signing adds another layer of excitement to the Dodgers’ roster moves. The organization is clearly committed to exploring all avenues to enhance their team’s competitiveness, and Ridings represents a potentially valuable addition.
Dodgers fans are encouraged to share their thoughts on this signing as the team prepares for the future. Will Steven Ridings prove to be a key player for the Dodgers in 2025? The anticipation is palpable as the organization seeks to build a roster capable of contending at the highest levels of Major League Baseball.