Los Angeles, CA -- (Sports Network) - The Los Angeles Dodgers claimed starting pitcher Esteban Loaiza off waivers from the Oakland Athletics on Wednesday.

Loaiza's 2007 season got off to a rocky start. The two-time All-Star began the year on the disabled list with back spasms and was later transferred to the 60-day DL with a bulging disc in his neck and torn meniscus in his right knee. Surgery was eventually performed on his knee May 31.

Loaiza recently returned to Oakland's rotation, making two starts in the past week and allowing just three earned runs in 14.2 innings pitched.

"At this time of the year, we're looking for any way to improve the team and Esteban is a talented veteran who we hope can contribute down the stretch and next season," said Dodgers general manager Ned Colletti. "He has a history of winning games and right now that's what's most important to our team."

The 35-year-old Loaiza owns a career record of 124-108 with a 4.60 ERA in 362 games (325 starts) for Pittsburgh, Texas, Toronto, the Chicago White Sox, the New York Yankees, Washington and Oakland.

To make room for him on the 40-man roster, the Dodgers transferred outfielder Jason Repko to the 60-day disabled list.