LOS ANGELES, CA., January 11, 2024 — The Los Angeles Dodgers have announced the acquisition of two promising minor league talents, pitcher Jackson Ferris and outfielder Zyhir Hope, from the Chicago Cubs. In return, the Dodgers have traded away right-handed pitcher Yency Almonte and infielder Michael Busch.
Jackson Ferris, a 19-year-old left-hander, has demonstrated significant potential in his 18 appearances for Myrtle Beach last season, securing a 2-3 record with a commendable 3.38 ERA. His impressive performance included 77 strikeouts over 56.0 innings, showing promise of a high-caliber pitcher in development. Ferris, an alumnus of IMG Academy in Florida, also boasts an impeccable junior year record and experience pitching for Team USA in the summer of 2021.
Zyhir Hope, an 18-year-old outfielder, also joins the Dodgers with a solid background. During his stint with the AZL Cubs, he boasted a .286 batting average and demonstrated power with three home runs and nine RBIs in just 11 games. His high school career was stellar, featuring a .538 batting average with nine homers and 38 RBIs.
The Dodgers parted with Yency Almonte, a 29-year-old pitcher who, despite a challenging last season, showed brilliance in 2022 with a 1.02 ERA. Michael Busch, a 26-year-old infielder, leaves after contributing two home runs and seven RBIs in 27 games for the Dodgers last season. Busch had been recognized as Triple-A Player of the Year, ending his season with a .323 batting average, 27 homers, and 90 RBIs for Oklahoma City.
This strategic move signifies the Dodgers’ intention to invest in future stars while balancing their current roster’s depth. With Ferris and Hope’s addition, the Dodgers are poised to enhance their minor league system and secure the franchise’s long-term success.
