Dodgers of Los Angeles LHP Blake Snell anticipates missing two weeks due to shoulder soreness.

Blake Snell, the Los Angeles Dodgers’ prized left-handed pitcher, has long been a vital component of their starting rotation. Following a standout 2023 season where he helped elevate the Dodgers to playoff contention, Snell has been one of the key figures the team relies on for its championship aspirations. However, Snell’s recent shoulder soreness, which is expected to sideline him for at least two weeks, has sent ripples through the Dodgers’ organization and fanbase.

This article delves into the implications of Snell’s absence, analyzing the impact on the Dodgers’ pitching staff, potential replacements, and the broader ramifications for the team’s 2025 season.

1. Blake Snell’s Career Overview

Blake Snell’s career trajectory has been nothing short of remarkable. From his breakthrough years with the Tampa Bay Rays to his trade to the San Diego Padres, Snell’s evolution into an elite MLB pitcher has been filled with moments of brilliance. His Cy Young Award-winning season in 2018 with the Rays cemented his reputation as one of the game’s top pitchers. Known for his devastating slider, high strikeout rate, and ability to dominate left-handed batters, Snell’s presence in the Dodgers’ rotation was expected to provide them with a powerful weapon.

In 2023, after signing with the Dodgers, Snell continued to perform at an elite level, maintaining a strong ERA and striking out hitters at a high clip. His potential for the 2025 season had fans excited, but his current injury has raised concerns about his durability moving forward.

2. Blake Snell’s Injury History

Shoulder injuries are particularly concerning for pitchers, as they can have a significant impact on velocity, control, and long-term durability. Snell’s history with injuries is not without precedent—he’s battled both shoulder inflammation and other pitching-related issues throughout his career. While not all of his past injuries have led to long-term problems, each episode has raised questions about his ability to stay healthy over a full season.

For the Dodgers, who made a significant investment in Snell’s talent, the timing of this injury is particularly concerning. Shoulder soreness can sometimes be a precursor to more serious conditions, including rotator cuff issues or labrum tears, both of which have ended the careers of many pitchers. While Snell has not been diagnosed with any serious structural damage, the possibility of extended downtime looms large.

3. Immediate Impact of the Injury on the Dodgers

With Snell expected to miss at least two weeks, the Dodgers will be forced to navigate a critical stretch of games without one of their top pitchers. The timing of the injury is unfortunate, as the Dodgers are gearing up for a tightly contested division race and hoping to position themselves for a strong postseason run. In the absence of Snell, the immediate questions surrounding the Dodgers’ pitching rotation are: Who will fill his spot, and how will this affect the team’s performance?

The Dodgers have the depth to absorb such a loss in the short term, but replacing Snell’s production is no easy task. His ability to miss bats and shut down opposing offenses was a key reason why the Dodgers were considered championship contenders. His absence shifts the dynamics of the rotation and places additional pressure on the bullpen and other starting pitchers to step up.

4. The Dodgers’ Pitching Staff: Depth and Potential Solutions

The Los Angeles Dodgers are fortunate to have a strong and deep pitching staff, and several candidates could fill the void left by Snell. Julio Urías, Clayton Kershaw, and Tony Gonsolin are proven starters, but in the wake of Snell’s injury, the team may need to lean on additional depth.

The team could call up prospects or make in-house adjustments, such as moving relievers to starting roles temporarily or using a six-man rotation. The bullpen, which has been a strength in recent seasons, might also play a key role in mitigating the impact of Snell’s absence. The team’s front office will have to weigh options carefully to maintain their competitive edge.

5. Managing the Rotation in Snell’s Absence

Manager Dave Roberts has proven adept at managing the pitching staff in difficult situations. In Snell’s absence, Roberts will likely shuffle the rotation to maintain effectiveness and avoid overloading any one pitcher. This might involve a few spot starts from bullpen arms or moving other pitchers into the starting rotation temporarily.

Given the Dodgers’ penchant for mixing up their pitching strategies, the team may use a combination of long-relief appearances and bullpen days to cover Snell’s absence. While these strategies can be effective, they also introduce variables into the equation. The Dodgers will need to balance workload management to ensure that their pitchers are not overextended in the short term, which could risk further injury.

6. Broader Impact on the Dodgers’ Season

Injuries to key players have historically impacted the Dodgers, particularly during their playoff runs. While the team has the resources to replace a player like Snell, any injury can derail a season if it isn’t managed properly. Snell’s absence could be a key factor in whether the Dodgers can compete for a division title and make a deep postseason run.

The team’s success will depend on how quickly Snell can recover and how effectively they manage his absence in the meantime. If his shoulder soreness is something more serious, it could have long-term implications for the team’s pitching staff and their overall chances in 2025.

7. Shoulder Injuries in MLB: A Closer Look

Shoulder injuries are among the most debilitating for pitchers. Unlike elbow injuries, which are often addressed through surgeries like Tommy John, shoulder issues can be more unpredictable and harder to diagnose. Over the years, a number of pitchers have seen their careers take a downturn due to shoulder ailments, and the Dodgers will be hoping that Snell’s soreness is a minor setback.

Medical professionals have weighed in on Snell’s injury, emphasizing the importance of a cautious approach. Rest, rehab, and careful monitoring will be key to his recovery process. However, shoulder injuries can be tricky, and Snell will need to be fully healed before returning to the mound to avoid further aggravation.

8. The Long-Term Outlook for Blake Snell

Should Snell’s shoulder injury be more than just a short-term concern, the implications for both Snell and the Dodgers could be significant. The left-hander is in the final stages of his contract with the Dodgers, and the timing of this injury could impact negotiations regarding his future. If the injury leads to more extended absences or worsens over time, it could affect his market value as a free agent.

For the Dodgers, managing Snell’s health will be crucial to determining their approach to the postseason. If Snell cannot return to form, the team may need to look to the trade market or further internal solutions to bolster their rotation.

Blake Snell’s anticipated two-week absence due to shoulder soreness is a significant setback for the Los Angeles Dodgers, but it is not one that they cannot overcome. The team has the depth and managerial expertise to adjust to the loss of one of their top pitchers. However, Snell’s long-term health will be a critical factor in determining the Dodgers’ chances of success in 2025. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Snell recovers and how the Dodgers adapt to his absence in the coming weeks.