Dodgers' most dependable left-handed relief pitcher Vesia has been placed on the injured list due to an oblique muscle strain.

Just as the Los Angeles Dodgers' bullpen was starting to recover, they faced another blow—left-handed pitcher Alex Vesia was added to the 15-day injured list prior to today's matchup with the Reds because of a right oblique muscle injury.

Vesia’s placement on the injured list dates back to last Sunday, a move made to allow lefty Blake Snell to return from the paternity list. Vesia has not appeared in a game since pitching in Denver last Friday.

Although Vesia endured a tough stretch from August 6 to 15 (allowing 5 runs in 4 appearances, 4 of which were earned), he has remained one of the Dodgers’ most reliable pitchers in crucial situations amid bullpen injuries.

In 59 appearances, Vesia holds a 2.75 ERA, second only to Anthony Banda’s 61 games pitched. Before today’s game, he was the only key reliever on the team not sidelined by injury.

The Dodgers recently welcomed Tanner Scott (left elbow inflammation) and Kirby Yates (lower back pain) back from the injured list last weekend, strengthening the back end of the bullpen. Michael Kopech (right knee meniscus surgery) is eligible to return from the 60-day injured list tomorrow, but manager Dave Roberts indicated he’s more likely to rejoin the roster after the September 1 expansion to 28 players. It remains unclear whether Vesia’s injury will affect this timeline.

This season, Vesia has typically served as the bridge to the ninth inning rather than as a closer, despite recording four saves. During his absence, rookies Ben Casparius and Jack Dreyer may fill the fireman role Vesia usually occupies.

The Dodgers have not designated a specific closer—although Scott has earned most save opportunities—so late-inning roles may be especially flexible without Vesia. As Los Angeles fights to maintain a slim lead in the NL West heading into the final stretch, finding the right formula to secure wins remains crucial.