The Los Angeles Dodgers’ early season has not unfolded as initially envisioned, particularly concerning their prized offseason acquisition, Blake Snell. Projected to be the team’s ace, Snell was placed on the 15-day IL on April 7 due to shoulder inflammation.
Any shoulder issue for a pitcher raises concerns, especially for a 32-year-old like Snell, where such ailments are second only to season-ending arm injuries in terms of severity.
Los Angeles Dodgers Have Little Clarity On Blake Snell’s Injury Timeline
Manager Dave Roberts recently provided an update to the media, offering what appears to be an optimistic outlook.
Snell resumed throwing on Monday, making 20-30 throws at a distance of approximately 90 feet. Roberts offered the following regarding a potential return timeline: “I don’t know exactly. I think just kind of how he’s feeling, the recovery, the progression. The throw looked good, his arm action was clean. He said he felt better than expected.”
When asked about the possibility of Snell making a rehab start in Triple-A before rejoining the major league roster, Roberts stated: “I think that’s contingent on how long he’s down for. The longer [he’s down], the more possibility. If it’s on the shorter side, then probably not.”
The fact that Snell has begun throwing is undoubtedly a positive development. As previously noted, any shoulder issue for a pitcher warrants careful attention, especially for a pitcher in his 30s with a five-year contract worth over $180 million.
In Snell’s absence, the Dodgers have turned to Landon Knack and Bobby Miller to fill the void. However, both pitchers have struggled and have since been optioned.