What happened: Los Angeles activated Kris Bubic off the injured list before its scheduled game in Cincinnati, putting the former All-Star left-hander on the active roster after his trade from Kansas City. The Dodgers optioned Paul Gervase to triple-A and designated Ryan Ward for assignment to open space.

Why it matters: Bubic gives the Dodgers another swingman option for the stretch run after the club waited on the deadline pickup to get back to the majors. His return also adds a different look alongside internal options such as Justin Wrobleski and Emmet Sheehan.

What to watch: Watch how quickly the Dodgers use Bubic once the game gets underway and whether he settles into a relief role. The roster shuffle also leaves follow-up decisions around Gervase and Ward.