Dodgers finalize deal with KC for Duffy

SAN FRANCISCO -- The Dodgers haven’t been shy about expressing their desire to add pitching help before Friday’s 1 p.m. PT Trade Deadline, and they added a versatile arm to their pitching staff on Thursday.

Los Angeles announced on Thursday that it acquired left-hander Danny Duffy and cash considerations from the Royals in exchange for a player to be named later. In order to make room on the 40-man roster for Duffy, the Dodgers designated outfielder DJ Peters for assignment.

Duffy, 32, had 10-and-5 rights, which allows him to veto any trade by virtue of spending his entire 11-year career with the Royals. But Duffy, who grew up in California and frequently attended games at Dodger Stadium with his father, ultimately waived his veto right and accepted the trade to L.A.

Adding Duffy to the mix gives the Dodgers another veteran left-handed arm that can provide length, when needed. Duffy, however, won’t be ready to return for at least a couple more weeks as he’s currently on the 10-day injured list with a left flexor strain. That didn’t stop Los Angeles, which sees Duffy as a big piece to its success come postseason time.

“Danny is a guy that was very high up on our list coming into July, but obviously he had the injury setback,” president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman said. “Right now we’re just excited to get him over here and evaluate where he’s at and figure out his progression. We’re not sure, but we really like the arm talent and feel like he can slot in in October and really help us in our pursuit to win a championship.”

Duffy, who is 4-3 with a 2.51 ERA this season, has been a starter for most of his career and could slide into the Dodgers’ rotation when healthy. Or L.A. could opt to keep Duffy as a multi-inning reliever as he eases back from injury.

The left-hander relies on a five-pitch mix that is dominated by his four-seamer, which he throws 43.4 percent of the time. This season, Duffy’s most effective pitches have been the slider and changeup, limiting hitters to a .188 and .194 average, respectively.

Aside from what he does on the field, Duffy has been highly regarded as an excellent presence in the clubhouse throughout his 11-year career.

“He was one of my best friends on the team. Incredible teammate, incredible guy,” said Royals infielder Whit Merrifield. “One of the most caring teammates I’ve ever been around. I’m excited for him to go to L.A., and play for his hometown team. They’re gonna love him over there, and we’re gonna miss him over here.”

The player to be named later heading back to the Royals will be announced during the offseason. The quality of prospect will depend on Duffy’s recovery timeline and performance.