Dodgers Endure Major Rotation Blow: Snell and Glasnow Shoulder Injuries
The Los Angeles Dodgers’ star-studded pitching rotation has staggered under fresh setbacks: veteran aces Blake Snell and Tyler Glasnow have both landed on the injured list suffering from significant shoulder inflammation, confirmed by team officials. These latest developments compound a season already marred by injuries to numerous key pitchers.
Blake Snell’s Shoulder Setback
Signed to a lucrative five-year, $182 million contract in November 2024, Blake Snell had been expected to anchor the Dodgers’ rotation. However, after just two starts to begin the 2025 season, he was placed on the 15-day injured list on April 6 due to left shoulder inflammation, an MRI confirming the diagnosis.
Recovery efforts hit a snag in late April when Snell felt discomfort during a catching session. Manager Dave Roberts announced on April 23 that Snell has been “shut down from throwing” pending further imaging, identifying this as a “setback” in his rehab. Preceding this, observers had already noted his delayed return from shoulder discomfort: ongoing pain and illness impeded progress, complicating the Dodgers’ strategy to rely on him for mid-season reinforcement.
Tyler Glasnow’s Ongoing Shoulder Troubles
Shortly after Snell’s issues, right-hander Tyler Glasnow encountered similar problems. On April 27, in his fifth start, Vlad stumbled out of the gate, surrendering two early home runs before struggling to complete the inning. Shortly after, he exited the game due to right shoulder discomfort, marking the second consecutive start cut short.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts revealed that Glasnow had also experienced overall body soreness, a symptom coupled with shoulder inflammation, prompting his placement on the 15-day injured list on April 28. Glasnow, who is known for mechanical adjustments made to improve his durability, remains without a return timeline. Fortunately, imaging has shown no structural damage, but persistent pain and mechanical uncertainty still cloud his rehab.
Wider Impact on the Dodgers’ Pitching Staff
These two injuries exacerbate a growing crisis. Both Snell and Glasnow were part of a top-heavy investment strategy, yet combined have contributed only 27 innings this season. Their issues come atop injuries to other arms like Clayton Kershaw, Tony Gonsolin, and Roki Sasaki. Indeed, at one point, 15–16 pitchers were on the injured list, creating immense strain on the Playoff-caliber team.
Manager Dave Roberts commented candidly on the volatility of pitching health:
“Pitching is certainly volatile… leading MLB in bullpen innings… we’re trying to make sure we don’t red-line these guys.”
Outlook for Return & Roster Adaptation
Despite the severity of these injuries, both players remain on the 60-day IL (Snell moved there in mid-May, Glasnow moved in late May), suggesting neither is expected back before mid-season. Their absence, while disheartening, does not amount to season-ending for either.
The team is recalibrating its strategy, leaning on younger pitchers like Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Roki Sasaki, Dustin May, and recently returned Tony Gonsolin. Manager Roberts has discussed experimenting with shorter between-start rest or deploying more bullpen games, while the offense is expected to provide temporary support.
General Manager Brandon Gomes indicated that in-house reinforcements remain their preferred approach, though recent injuries may necessitate evaluating mid-season acquisitions.
Summary
- Blake Snell abrupt halt to throwing after left shoulder inflammation; now shut down and on 60-day IL.
- Tyler Glasnow sidelined again by right shoulder inflammation; also moved to 60-day IL.
- More than a dozen pitchers are already on the IL, severely testing the depth and flexibility of the pitching staff.
- Dodgers are relying on younger arms, bullpen strategies, and offense while hoping Snell and Glasnow return by the second half of the season.
Ultimately, this is bad news for a team counting on pitching dominance. The mid and late-season performance now hinges on recovery timelines, internal depth, and possible trade options. The Dodgers’ front office and coaching staff—aware of the season’s demands—must adapt swiftly to avoid being derailed by a mounting injury crisis.
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