Are the Los Angeles Dodgers finally getting healthy? It appears so. Manager Dave Roberts announced that left-hander Blake Snell would make his return from the injured list for the Dodgers’ road series against the Tampa Bay Rays, according to David Vassegh of SportsNet LA. Snell has been sidelined since April with an elbow issue. It will be the left-hander’s third start of the season as he takes on his former team.
Roberts: Blake Snell to Return for Dodgers vs. Rays
Abbreviated Season
Snell was one of the most coveted free-agent signings in the offseason. Snell chose the Dodgers over multiple suitors because he wanted to win. Unfortunately, the two-time Cy Young Award winner began spring training pitching in pain. In his two starts, Snell has an ERA of 2.00. However, he has walked eight batters in nine innings pitched, which suggests that the pain was affecting his control. In his last tune-up at Triple-A Oklahoma City, Snell pitched a scoreless 4 2/3 innings, priming him for a return to the majors.
Dave Roberts confirms Blake Snell will start on Saturday in Tampa. Snell will be in Tampa tomorrow to throw a bullpen session to prepare. #Dodgers
— David Vassegh (@THEREAL_DV) July 30, 2025
The Domino Effect
Snell’s return opens the door for the Dodgers to proceed with a six-man starting rotation. A move that the Dodgers have discussed and desired since spring training. However, injuries have limited that option. However, Snell’s presence pushes Dustin May into the bullpen in a long-relief role. Dave Roberts wants the right-hander “stretched out.” Of course, that move only happens if May stays in a Dodger uniform beyond the next 24 hours.
Other News of Note
Rookie right-hander Roki Sasaki will begin facing hitters at the Dodgers’ Arizona facility and is expected back later this season. Sasaki has been out of the rotation since May with a shoulder impingement. He has been working on modifying his delivery in order to limit further injury. This is good news for Los Angeles, as it was speculated that the right-hander may miss the rest of the 2025 season.
Don’t hold your breath, but it appears the Dodgers are getting healthy at just the right time.
Main Photo Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
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