The Los Angeles Dodgers are likely to employ a six-man rotation this season to manage the workloads of their starting pitchers, several of whom have recently experienced significant injury setbacks.
This strategic approach will create an additional roster spot, with the sixth starter position likely to be determined during Spring Training.
The Dodgers’ starting rotation is currently facing a significant period of transition. Shohei Ohtani, recovering from right elbow and left shoulder surgeries, is not expected to be ready for the start of the season. Manager Dave Roberts expects him back in May.
Furthermore, Tony Gonsolin and Dustin May, both recovering from Tommy John surgery and a right flexor tendon injury respectively, have not pitched since the 2023 season.
Let’s examine the current state of the Dodgers starting pitching rotation while Roki Sasaki weighs his final decision.
2025 Dodgers Pitching Rotation
If L.A. opens the season with 6 it will likely look like this: Blake Snell, Tyler Glasnow, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Gonsolin, May, and Landon Knack.
Of course, if they land Sasaki, Knack will be the odd man out.
The Dodgers possess a wealth of young pitching talent within their 40-man roster, providing a degree of flexibility as they navigate the uncertainties surrounding the health of their established starters.
Prospects such as Ben Casparius, Bobby Miller, and Justin Wrobleski are poised to contribute, with Miller expected to play a significant role. Emmet Sheehan, recovering from Tommy John surgery, is also a potential contributor, while Nick Frasso, who missed the 2024 season due to right shoulder surgery, may also be an option.
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While River Ryan and Kyle Hurt, both recovering from Tommy John surgeries, could potentially return late in the season, their availability for significant contributions appears unlikely.
Gavin Stone, who led the team in starts and innings pitched last season, is expected to miss the 2025 season following right shoulder surgery.