The Los Angeles Dodgers are experiencing a strong period of performance and are also seeing their roster return to full strength. The team has managed to win eight out of their last ten games, and manager Dave Roberts has been optimistic about the recovery timelines of players currently on the Injured List. Here is an update on the latest developments and what they could mean for the future of the Los Angeles roster.
One Infielder Reinstated, Another on His Way Soon?
Enrique Hernández made his season debut against the Colorado Rockies on May 25. He immediately made an impact by hitting a run-scoring double down the line. The fan-favorite utility player had off-season elbow surgery to address an injury that he played through during the postseason last year. The doctor who performed the surgery described it as the worst injury of its kind he has ever seen.
Hernandez, who has played every position on the diamond except catcher, is considered the Dodger version of “Mr October” in the postseason. To make room for Hernandez on the roster, Los Angeles designated Santiago Espinal for assignment. Espinal struggled to maintain the momentum he showed coming out of Spring Training.
Is Tommy Tanks Finally Healthy?
Tommy Edman is also on the path to recovery. He started a rehab assignment on May 26 in the minors with Triple-A Oklahoma City. This assignment will last at least three weeks as he works to rebuild strength in his ankle, which was surgically repaired during the offseason. This ankle injury predates Edman’s arrival to the Dodgers and significantly affected his performance last year, especially with the bat. His batting average was at least 20 points lower than his career average. The Dodgers have taken a cautious approach with his return. If everything goes well, he is expected to rejoin the Big League club in mid-June.
The Starting Rotation
Tyler Glasnow has been on the Injured List due to back spasms since he left a start early against the Houston Astros. Initially, Roberts expected the right-hander to “miss the minimum.” However, Glasnow’s back flared up again, interrupting his recovery. He has now resumed a throwing program. It is worth noting that Glasnow has had a history of injuries throughout his career, missing chunks of time. He has never pitched above 160 innings in his Major League career. This might be a strategy to reduce the mileage on his arm, ensuring he is ready for the stretch run and the postseason.
Blake Snell is also recovering from having a Skubal Scope. He will be out for at least a month.
The Pen
Right-hander Brusdar Graterol is out indefinitely after suffering a back injury during rehab. He hasn’t pitched in the majors since 2024. However, Jack Dreyer, Evan Philips, and Brock Stewart are all facing hitters in a simulated game this afternoon. Stewart, who has been out with a bone spur, is likely the closest to starting a rehab assignment.
A Numbers Game
As more players return to health, the roster is expected to become crowded soon. Hyeseong Kim should be on high alert. Alex Freeland beat him out for a roster spot before Opening Day. Kim performed well at Triple-A and was soon recalled when Mookie Betts went on the IL. He stayed up when Betts returned. However, he has cooled off considerably. He is just 6-40 before last night’s game. According to his manager, the young infielder is “swinging outside the zone” again. With Edman on the verge of returning, it looks like Kim may be running out of time to turn it around.
As for which pitching arms to choose from? The Dodgers will cross that bridge when they come to it.
Main Photo Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
