A number of key Dodgers players continue to work their way back from the injured list. Some – like outfielder Teoscar Hernández, who homered in his third straight rehab game on Friday, are nearing a return. Others are further away.
Here’s a rundown with the latest updates on Blake Snell, Edwin Díaz and Will Smith.
Snell threw a 15-pitch, all-fastball bullpen session on June 26, his first since undergoing surgery to remove loose bodies in his pitching elbow in mid-May. The Dodgers expect him to need at least four more bullpens before he progresses to face hitters.
Snell underwent the now-famous NanoNeedle Scope procedure, which helped expedite the return of Tigers left-hander Tarik Skubal. But the Dodgers are focused on ensuring that Snell is healthy for the stretch run and the postseason. Manager Dave Roberts said that he does not expect Snell to return to the Majors before the All-Star break.
Snell allowed five runs in his only start of the season, on May 9, after opening the year on the IL with left shoulder fatigue.
Díaz threw another bullpen session on June 26 as he continues to ramp up his progression following surgery to remove loose bodies in his pitching elbow in late April. Roberts said that he expects Díaz to return at some point after the All-Star break.
As a high-leverage reliever, Díaz is likely to require a shorter build-up than a starting pitcher would. Last week, Roberts said that the organization plans to have Díaz throw multiple bullpens and face live hitters before eventually going out on a three- to-five game Minor League rehab assignment.
The three-time All-Star pitched to a 10.50 ERA in his first seven appearances with the Dodgers after signing a three-year contract to join the club in the offseason.
Smith is still not doing any baseball activities as he deals with neck inflammation. That makes him unlikely to be activated when the Dodgers begin their next homestand on July 2.
Smith was held out of the L.A. lineup for four consecutive games before ultimately landing on the IL on June 11. Though the club initially hoped Smith’s absence would be a short one, Roberts noted last week that “it’s going to take more time.” Smith recently received an injection in hopes of minimizing the discomfort.
A three-time All-Star, Smith is hitting .249 with a .720 OPS in 52 games this season.