Los Angeles Dodgers managing recovery carefully as Blake Snell targets late May return: The Los Angeles Dodgers will begin the 2026 MLB season without one of their most important pitchers. Star left-hander Blake Snell is still recovering from a shoulder issue that developed during the previous season, forcing the team to place him on the injured list to start the year.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts confirmed that Snell will not be part of the Opening Day roster. The organization is taking a cautious approach with the two-time Cy Young Award winner, focusing on long-term health rather than rushing him back to the mound.
Although the injury delays his start to the season, there is optimism that Snell could return to the Dodgers rotation later in the spring.
Blake Snell Injury: Shoulder Issue Delays Season Start
Blake Snell has been dealing with lingering shoulder inflammation that dates back to the previous season. The left-handed pitcher continued to compete through the injury during the regular season and postseason, but the workload eventually caught up with him.
Because of this, the Dodgers medical staff decided that Snell would need additional recovery time before returning to competitive action.
Blake Snell Injury Details
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Player | Blake Snell |
| Team | Los Angeles Dodgers |
| Injury | Shoulder inflammation |
| Season Status | Starting season on injured list |
| Expected Return | Around late May |
The Dodgers believe patience now will help ensure that Snell can contribute at full strength later in the season.
Dodgers Target Late May Return for Snell
The current plan is for Snell to return sometime around the end of May if his recovery continues to progress smoothly.
Manager Dave Roberts indicated that the team is carefully monitoring his throwing program and gradually increasing his workload.
Snell has already resumed baseball activities and recently completed a bullpen session where he threw 18 pitches. Reports from the session were encouraging, with the pitcher saying he felt comfortable and experienced no pain.
The Dodgers still want to ensure his shoulder is fully ready before allowing him to rejoin the starting rotation.
Why the Dodgers Are Taking a Careful Approach
Snell played an important role in the Dodgers’ success last season, especially during the postseason. His heavy workload during the championship run is believed to have contributed to the fatigue in his shoulder.
Rather than risk aggravating the injury, the Dodgers are limiting his early spring training activities. He has mostly been throwing in controlled sessions instead of full game situations.
The organization views Snell as a critical part of its long-term rotation plans, making his full recovery a top priority.
Blake Snell’s Impact During the 2025 Season
Even with limited regular-season appearances, Snell delivered impressive performances when he was healthy.
Blake Snell 2025 Season Stats
| Category | Numbers |
|---|---|
| Games Started | 11 |
| ERA | 2.35 |
| Innings Pitched | 61.1 |
| Strikeouts | 72 |
Snell also contributed significantly in the postseason, appearing in six games and helping the Dodgers secure a World Series victory.
His ability to dominate opposing lineups makes him one of the most valuable pitchers in the Dodgers organization.
Read more: Thomas Chabot Injury Update
Dodgers Rotation Adjusting for Snell’s Absence
While Snell recovers, the Dodgers will rely on the depth of their pitching staff to manage the early part of the season.
The team has several strong arms available to fill the rotation and maintain stability until Snell returns.
Dodgers Starting Rotation to Begin Season
| Pitcher | Role |
|---|---|
| Yoshinobu Yamamoto | Starting pitcher |
| Shohei Ohtani | Starting pitcher |
| Emmet Sheehan | Starting pitcher |
| Tyler Glasnow | Starting pitcher |
| Roki Sasaki | Starting pitcher |
| Justin Wrobleski | Rotation depth |
This group gives the Dodgers flexibility while waiting for Snell’s return.
Tommy Edman Also Recovering from Injury
Snell is not the only key Dodgers player dealing with an injury. Utility player Tommy Edman is also on the injured list while recovering from ankle surgery.
Edman underwent surgery after dealing with ankle issues throughout the previous season. Like Snell, he is targeting a return toward the end of May.
His absence affects the team’s defensive versatility since Edman can play multiple positions across the field.
Dodgers Focused on Long-Term Success
The Dodgers are entering the 2026 season with high expectations after winning the World Series last year. The organization believes that maintaining player health early in the season will be critical for another championship run.
Snell’s return later in the year could provide a major boost to the pitching staff as the team pushes toward the postseason.
For now, the Dodgers will rely on their depth while giving their star pitcher the time he needs to fully recover.
