Injury:: Blake Snell is sidelined with left shoulder inflammation.
Timeline:: He's on the 15-day IL, retroactive to April 3, 2025, meaning he will miss at least the next homestand.
Context:: Snell signed a five-year, $182 million contract with the Dodgers this past November.
Performance:: In his first two starts (9 innings), Snell posted a 2.00 ERA but issued 8 walks against 4 strikeouts.
History:: This marks Snell's 10th trip to the injured list in his MLB career. He historically starts seasons slower (3.95 career pre-All-Star ERA) and finishes stronger (2.32 career post-All-Star ERA).
Why this matters:: This injury creates an immediate gap in the Dodgers' starting rotation early in the season, testing their pitching depth. It also raises concerns given Snell's large contract and history with injuries, although previous IL stints were often unrelated to his throwing shoulder. Fantasy baseball managers rostering Snell will also need to make adjustments.
The shoulder inflammation was reportedly identified following Snell's last start on April 2nd and a subsequent bullpen session where he conferred with team medical staff. While the team hasn't detailed the severity beyond inflammation, placing him on the IL necessitates adjustments.
With Snell sidelined, the Dodgers face decisions for their upcoming starts, particularly Tuesday (Snell's scheduled day) and Wednesday. Dustin May is set for Monday, but Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Roki Sasaki are pitching on a once-a-week schedule, lining them up for the weekend series. This leaves two rotation spots open mid-week.
Right-hander Matt Sauer was recalled from Triple-A Oklahoma City as the immediate corresponding move. Sauer had a 7.71 ERA in 14 games with the Royals in 2024. The Dodgers might opt for a bullpen game for one of the open slots or call upon other Triple-A options like Landon Knack, Justin Wrobleski, or Bobby Miller for a spot start.
Snell's injury comes early in his massive five-year, $182 million deal ($65 million of which is deferred, making the present value closer to $160M-$165M). He secured this contract after a strong finish to the 2024 season with the Giants prompted him to opt out of his previous deal. While his 2.00 ERA in two starts looks good, the high walk rate (8 BB in 9 IP) was already a point of attention.
What is Blake Snell's specific injury?
Blake Snell has been placed on the injured list with left shoulder inflammation.
How long is Blake Snell expected to be out?
He is on the 15-day injured list, retroactive to April 3rd. He will miss at least the team's next homestand. The full recovery timeline depends on the severity and his response to treatment.
How will the Dodgers fill Snell's spot in the rotation?
The Dodgers recalled RHP Matt Sauer initially. They may use a bullpen game or call up another starter from Triple-A, with Landon Knack, Justin Wrobleski, and Bobby Miller being potential options.
Monitor Updates:: Keep an eye on reports regarding the severity of Snell's inflammation and his expected return date.
Who This Affects Most:: The Dodgers' pitching strategy is immediately impacted. Fantasy baseball managers need to find replacements for Snell. Fans will be watching closely given his high-profile signing.
How to Prepare (Fantasy Baseball):: Watch for official announcements on who will take Snell's starts. Potential call-ups like Knack, Wrobleski, or Miller could be waiver wire targets if they get the opportunity.
This early-season injury adds another layer to the Dodgers' quest for a championship.
*How will Snell's absence impact the Dodgers' early-season momentum? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!*
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Compiled from reports by:
MLB.com: Snell (left shoulder inflammation) placed on 15-day IL target="_blank"
MLB Trade Rumors
Los Angeles Times
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