The Los Angeles Dodgers have named right-hander Dustin May as their fifth starting pitcher, according to the Dodgers podcast LA Territory. Manager Dave Roberts made the announcement while being interviewed on the podcast. The newly-extended skipper had stated earlier today that whoever was the fifth starter would remain stateside while the rest of the team opens the season in Japan. May will remain at the spring training facility in Arizona and continue a throwing program before rejoining the Dodgers.
Dustin May Named Dodgers’ Fifth Starter
The Process of Elimination
Unlike much of the roster, which is set in stone, the fifth spot in the rotation was up for grabs for most of camp. Tony Gonsolin and Bobby Miller were chief among May’s competition. However, Miller was sidelined early in the spring with a concussion after he was hit in the head with a line drive in the first exhibition game. Roberts also revealed on Dodgers Territory that Gonsolin injured his back while lifting weights. Although he called Gonsolin’s mishap “a hiccup,” it remains unclear what Gonsolin’s role will be once he returns.
The Second Comeback
May is known for incredible stuff, but is coming off the second Tommy John surgery of his career. While rehabbing from the arm surgery last season, May had to have an emergency session under the knife to repair his esophagus. Now fully recovered, the hope is that May will stay healthy enough to make the most of this opportunity. Roberts says the right-hander “makes a lot of sense as a fifth starter this season.”
Is It May Day For Hitters?
This is quite the turn of events for May. His manager said earlier this spring that his role “was unclear.” Now, whatever was hazy seems to have cleared up rather quickly. Now, all the right-hander has to do is stay healthy. May’s pitching arsenal speaks for itself.
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