The Los Angeles Dodgers face continued challenges with their pitching staff, as left-hander Blake Snell’s return to the club appears to be further delayed. Manager Dave Roberts informed members of the media, including Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic, that Snell “didn’t feel great” after a recent catch session. As a result, Snell will be shut down, and there is a possibility he will undergo additional imaging.
The Dodgers signed Snell to a five-year, $182MM deal (with some deferrals) in the offseason, based on his strong performance on a per-inning basis. Notably, he has only twice pitched more than 130 innings in a season, with both of those seasons culminating in Cy Young awards.
Snell began the season healthy but was subsequently placed on the injured list after just two starts due to shoulder inflammation. Initial MRIs revealed no structural damage, and the Dodgers were optimistic about a relatively short absence. However, it has now been three weeks since his last appearance, and this latest setback is expected to prolong his recovery.
Los Angeles Dodgers Report More Tests For Blake Snell
According to Jack Harris of the Los Angeles Times, Snell will be re-examined when the team returns to Los Angeles, following their current series at Wrigley Field and Thursday’s off-day, before beginning a new homestand on Friday.
Dodgers Nation suggests the move is to ensure that Snell will be ready to go for the team’s playoff push. This is a sentiment that Roberts expressed for Shohei Ohtani’s long recovery process from multiple surgeries.
Snell’s situation is compounded by a significant number of other Dodgers starting pitchers currently on the injured list. Emmet Sheehan, Kyle Hurt, River Ryan, and Gavin Stone are all sidelined following major arm surgeries last year. Clayton Kershaw is also working his way back from knee and foot surgery. Tony Gonsolin sustained a back injury during spring training.