Dodgers option Kolarek, trim roster to 28

The Dodgers optioned reliever Adam Kolarek and utility man Zach McKinstry to their alternate training site at USC on Thursday to comply with the mandated roster reduction from 30 to 28.

Kolarek had pitched in four games and already picked up two victories while not allowing an earned run, but he had not appeared since last Thursday. Fellow left-handed relievers Caleb Ferguson, Scott Alexander and Jake McGee have a combined six appearances since then.

McKinstry, a 33rd-round Draft pick in 2016 and ranked No. 24 in the Dodgers' system by MLB Pipeline, was promoted on Wednesday to replace pitcher Victor González and provide position player depth while Mookie Betts (finger) and Edwin Ríos (toe) nurse minor injuries. McKinstry did not appear in a game during his brief visit.

• The Dodgers were pleased and relieved with results from their first trip of the year: seven wins, two losses, zero COVID-19 positives.

The first two numbers verify a roster built for success. The added category they consider validation of team-wide discipline in dealing with an unforeseen pandemic.

“I’m really encouraged by that, especially going through a few hotbeds in Houston and Arizona and come out of it unscathed,” pitcher Ross Stripling said after Wednesday night’s 7-6 win in San Diego. “And obviously, three really good teams, and to go 7-2 is certainly encouraging as a team and accomplishment on its own. So definitely just happy to be headed home healthy, no cases -- knock on wood -- in the locker room and keep building off of that. Always nice to get the longest road trip behind us.”

“Got to tip your hat to our training staff and the players, holding each other accountable for our safety and our families’ safety,” said Joc Pederson, who slugged a pair of homers Wednesday night. “Really proud of that. And the wins, obviously, were nice as well.”