Blake Snell, Dodgers pitcher #7, just threw live to hitters for the first time since his elbow surgery back in mid-May. That's a massive step for a guy who's been sidelined recovering from an operation to remove loose bodies from his left elbow. Snell's only logged three innings in his one start for the Dodgers this year, and let's be real, it's been a lost season for him so far. But this latest update? It means his return is finally within sight.
Snell's Long Road Back
Manager Dave Roberts confirmed that Snell's next move should be a rehab assignment, kicking off likely the first weekend after the All-Star break. This dude started the season on the injured list with left shoulder fatigue before the elbow issue hit, so it's been a grind. You gotta feel for him. But Roberts dropped a key quote: "He says he feels better right now than he did when he returned before." That's the kind of confidence booster you need to hear, especially for a two-time Cy Young award winner itching to get back on the mound and dominate.Rotation Rollercoaster Continues
While Snell is finally trending up, the Dodgers' rotation has been a wild ride despite being one of the best in baseball. Tyler Glasnow has been out since early May, and it sounds like a frustrating loop for him. Bill Plunkett from the Orange County Register noted Glasnow faces numerous setbacks where he feels good throwing, and then he doesn't. He did manage a fastball-only bullpen on Friday, so maybe a tiny glimmer of hope there. Meanwhile, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, who just tossed six innings in a loss on Saturday, won't be pitching in the All-Star game. His teammate Justin Wrobleski is taking his spot. Yamamoto's looking forward to the atmosphere, saying, "It would be better if I was able to pitch … because I [would] enjoy the atmosphere, and the whole show." Add to that, young right-handers Gavin Stone and River Ryan haven't even made their big-league debuts this season, and Landon Knack is just now getting his first starts three months in. Oh, and shout out to Kiké Hernández, who's expected back after the All-Star break too. He's only played two games, but he's already mashed a homer and collected hits in all four at-bats! Snell's rehab assignment after the All-Star break is the next big thing to watch. He's got that fire, and if he really feels better than before, watch out. The Dodgers are navigating a minefield of injuries, but these key returns could be exactly what they need to crank things up.This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.