Dodgers Sign Chayce McDermott After Orioles Exit: Full Trade Details, Stats & What It Means

The Los Angeles Dodgers have made a fresh pitching move by bringing in right-hander Chayce McDermott from the Baltimore Orioles. The deal, completed on April 16, 2026, sees the Dodgers send young prospect Axel Perez in return.

This transfer comes at an important stage in McDermott’s career, as he looks to rebuild his form and establish himself again at a higher level.

Trade Details: Dodgers and Orioles Complete Pitching Swap

The deal was a straight exchange between two right-handed pitchers—one experienced but struggling, and one young with long-term potential.

Trade Summary

Team	Player Received	Position	Age
Los Angeles Dodgers	Chayce McDermott	RHP	25–27
Baltimore Orioles	Axel Perez	RHP	20

McDermott was recently designated for assignment by the Orioles, which opened the door for this move. The Dodgers had space on their 40-man roster and quickly added him, then assigned him to Triple-A Oklahoma City.

Chayce McDermott’s Career Journey So Far

Early Promise as a Top Prospect

McDermott was once seen as one of the promising pitchers in the Orioles’ system. His strong 2023 season showed his potential clearly.

2023 Performance Highlight

Level	Innings	ERA
Double-A & Triple-A	119	3.10

His ability to strike out batters and control games made him a rising name during that period.

Decline in Form and Role Change

After his strong 2023 season, things started to go downhill.

Struggles in 2025

Level	Role	ERA
Triple-A	Starter	6.91

Due to poor consistency and control issues, McDermott was shifted from a starting role to the bullpen.

Improvement as a Reliever

His move to relief pitching showed some positive signs:

Stat	Value
ERA	1.76
Innings	15.1
Strikeouts	18
Walks	7

This short stretch proved he could still be effective in a different role.

2026 Season Performance Before Trade

McDermott’s start to the 2026 season was mixed and slightly concerning.

2026 Triple-A Stats

Stat	Value
Appearances	5
Innings	5.1
Earned Runs	4
Strikeouts	9
Walks	6
ERA Range	6.75 – 12.79

While he showed good strikeout ability, control remained a big issue with too many walks.

Pitching Style and Improvements

Despite inconsistent results, McDermott has worked on improving his pitching arsenal.

Key Changes

• Fastball velocity increased to around 95.3 mph
• Added a cutter (around 90 mph)
• Adjusted slider to a slower speed in the low 80s

These changes suggest he is adapting more towards a bullpen role, focusing on fewer pitches with better effectiveness.

Axel Perez: Orioles’ New Long-Term Project

The Orioles received a young and raw talent in Axel Perez, who is still early in his professional career.

Axel Perez Overview

Detail	Value
Age	20
Height	6’4”
Experience	23 professional innings
League	Dominican Summer League
ERA	5.48
Strikeout Rate	31%+
Walk Rate	12.6%

Perez has strong physical attributes and strikeout ability but needs to improve control. He is seen as a long-term development player.

What This Move Means for the Dodgers

The Dodgers are taking a low-risk, high-upside approach with McDermott.

Key Points

• Immediate depth added to pitching staff
• Assigned to Triple-A for development
• Opportunity to refine bullpen role
• Potential call-up if performance improves

This move fits the Dodgers’ strategy of rebuilding struggling players and turning them into useful contributors.

What This Means for McDermott’s Career

This trade gives McDermott a fresh start in a new system.

Opportunities Ahead

• Chance to fix control issues
• Stable role as a reliever
• Better development support
• Path back to MLB roster

If he improves consistency, he could become a reliable bullpen option in the future.

Chayce McDermott’s move to the Dodgers is a fresh opportunity at the right time. While his recent performances have been inconsistent, his raw talent and improved pitching tools still offer hope.

For the Dodgers, this is a smart gamble. For McDermott, it could be the turning point his career needs.