Dodgers executive Bob Wolfe to retire at year’s end

By the Editorial Team · Sunday, November 1, 2026

Bob Wolfe, the Los Angeles Dodgers' executive vice president and chief operating officer, announced he will retire at the end of 2026 after 14 years with the team but is expected to stay on as an advisor. In MLB contract moves, the Tampa Bay Rays secured pitcher Drew Rasmussen for 2027 by exercising his option, while multiple teams, including the Orioles, Rangers, and Reds, declined key player contract options, opening free-agent opportunities.

Bob Wolfe, an executive with the Los Angeles Dodgers, will retire at the end of 2026 after a 14-year tenure as the team’s executive vice president. Wolfe has also served as the Dodgers’ chief operating officer for the past five years, overseeing daily administrative and operational functions. His professional career spans 47 years, including previous roles with the NBA’s Atlanta Hawks and Major League Baseball’s Atlanta Braves and Washington Nationals. Following his retirement, Wolfe is expected to remain with the Dodgers in an advisory capacity.

In player contract developments across Major League Baseball, the Tampa Bay Rays have exercised a $20 million option for pitcher Drew Rasmussen for the 2027 season, securing the American League champion’s ace for another year.

Meanwhile, the Baltimore Orioles have declined the $20 million club option on outfielder Luis Robert Jr. for the 2027 season, making him a free agent. Additionally, several players with the Texas Rangers have opted not to extend their contracts, including designated hitter Joc Pederson, catcher Kyle Higashioka, and right-handed pitcher Jakob Junis, all declining mutual options.

Cincinnati Reds closer Emilio Pagán has also declined a $10 million option for 2027. The Reds further chose not to exercise contract options on slugger Eugenio Suárez and right-handed pitcher Pierce Johnson, leaving their roster positions open ahead of the upcoming season.

In international player news, Kaima Taira, a right-handed pitcher with the Seibu Lions of Japan’s Pacific League, has expressed a desire to pursue a career in Major League Baseball. The Lions have agreed to allow Taira to enter the posting system, which facilitates Japanese players’ transfer to MLB teams.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.