Copen's no-hit bid, Ward walks it off, A ball pitching shines

Dodgers' minor league prospects shine on the mound and at the plate

Apr. 14, 2026 at 4:35pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting various baseball actions and movements, rendered in a vibrant color palette of blues, oranges, and greens, capturing the dynamic energy of the Dodgers' minor league standouts.Dodgers prospects display their raw talent and potential through a cubist lens, hinting at the bright future ahead for the organization.Oklahoma City Today

In the Dodgers' minor league system, several top prospects had standout performances last week. Pitcher Patrick Copen took a no-hitter into the 7th inning, outfielder Jaron Elkins continued his hot start at the plate, and a trio of young pitchers for the Ontario Tower Buzzers dominated on the mound.

Why it matters

The Dodgers' farm system is loaded with talented prospects, and these performances showcase the depth of the organization's player development pipeline. Strong showings from these young players could lead to future call-ups to the major league club.

The details

Pitcher Patrick Copen was the Pitcher of the Week, taking a no-hitter into the 7th inning before it was broken up. Outfielder Jaron Elkins had an impressive week at the plate, including a 3-steal game and nearly hitting for the cycle. On the mound, Marlon Nieves, Jesus Tillero, and Jecsua Liborius all had dominant outings for the Ontario Tower Buzzers. Offensively, Ryan Ward hit a dramatic walk-off home run for the Oklahoma City Comets.

  • On Wednesday, Jaron Elkins doubled and stole 3 bases.
  • On Thursday, Jaron Elkins missed hitting for the cycle by a double.
  • On Saturday, Ryan Ward hit a walk-off 3-run home run for the Comets.
  • On Friday, Christian Romero threw 5 shutout innings for the Tulsa Drillers.
  • On Sunday, Zyhir Hope hit a grand slam for the Tulsa Drillers.

The players

Patrick Copen

A Dodgers pitching prospect who took a no-hitter into the 7th inning, showcasing his overpowering stuff with 9 strikeouts.

Jaron Elkins

A Dodgers outfield prospect who is off to a hot start, batting 1.181 with 4 steals in just 4 games last week.

Marlon Nieves

A Dodgers pitching prospect who made his season debut with 6 shutout innings, 6 strikeouts, and just 1 hit allowed.

Jesus Tillero

A 19-year-old Dodgers pitching prospect who threw 6 shutout innings with 5 strikeouts.

Jecsua Liborius

A Dodgers relief pitcher prospect who recorded a pair of saves, facing 9 batters and striking out 8 of them.

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The takeaway

The Dodgers' minor league system continues to produce high-level talent, with several pitching and hitting prospects showcasing their skills and potential to contribute at the major league level in the near future.