The Los Angeles Dodgers made a roster move on July 10, 2024, optioning right-hander Bobby Miller to Triple-A Oklahoma City. The decision came after Miller gave up nine runs in four innings during a start against the Philadelphia Phillies, increasing his ERA to 8.07.
Miller was a promising prospect for the Dodgers when he made his major league debut in 2023, posting a solid 3.76 ERA over 23 starts as their most reliable starting pitcher. However, things have not gone well for him this season. Opponents are hitting .338/.434/.620 with five homers in just 83 plate appearances against Miller.
The Dodgers recalled right-hander Ricky Vanasco from the minors to fill Miller's spot in the rotation. In his major league debut, Vanasco pitched two scoreless innings against the Washington Nationals. In Triple-A this season, he has a 3.63 ERA with 20 walks and 25 strikeouts in 22⅔ innings.
The Dodgers' rotation has been hit hard by injuries, with Tyler Glasnow (back), Yoshinobu Yamamoto (strained rotator cuff), Walker Buehler (hip discomfort), and Clayton Kershaw (recovery from shoulder surgery) all on the injured list. Despite these absences, Los Angeles holds a 7½-game lead in the National League West.
Miller's demotion is not unexpected given his struggles this season. However, it remains to be seen how long he will remain in the minors and when he might return to the Dodgers' rotation.