New Dodgers Starting Pitcher Has 'No Doubt' He Will Be Ready For Season

The Los Angeles Dodgers went big game hunting this offseason. The front office knew they needed to make some noise this winter and did not disappoint.

Although they signed the names we all know and love, it will be on the other guys to contribute and propel L.A. to the promised land. One player tasked to do just that is another one of their free agent signing, left-handed pitcher James Paxton.

Paxton signed a one-year deal with Los Angeles and will provide some depth to the rotation. However, he's coming off knee inflammation that caused him to shut it down for the last month of the season.

Questions surfaced on whether he'd be ready by the start of the season, but Paxton quickly shut everything down. He told OC Register's Bill Plunkett there is 'no doubt' he will be ready for the season.

Paxton: "I’m an older player now, and I’m not perfect anymore. My body’s not perfect. So there’s things that have kind of built up over the years. But I’m feeling really good right now. All the physical tests are really good. I’m feeling strong and ready."
— Bill Plunkett (@billplunkettocr) February 10, 2024

Paxton is coming off an alright 2023 season with the Boston Red Sox, where he pitched in 19 games. He collected a 7-5 record with a 4.50 ERA, 101 strikeouts and a 1.31 WHIP in 96 innings. He tossed his most innings since 2019; however, it was still under 100 total.

The 35-year-old is no stranger to injury. In 2021, he tore his ulnar collateral ligament as a member of the Seattle Mariners, which caused him to miss the entire 2022 season due to Tommy John surgery.

That is all behind Paxton now, and he will look for a special 2024 season, individually speaking and team-wise. Paxton could be the steal of the offseason if the pitching staff works their magic on the southpaw.

We're glad to hear he's back to his form and can't wait to see him pitch gems for the Boys in Blue.