Dodgers’ right-handed pitcher Emmet Sheehan is set to kick off the season on the injured list, as confirmed by manager Dave Roberts in a recent statement to reporters, including Jack Harris of the Los Angeles Times. Sheehan, who has not yet taken the mound this spring due to shoulder discomfort and general body soreness, was initially suggested by Roberts to be a possible contender for the Dodgers’ first game in North America on March 28.
The 2024 season starts earlier than usual for the Dodgers, commencing with a two-game series against the Padres in Seoul on March 20-21. Following a brief break to recover from jet lag, the team faces the Angels for the final three games of the Spring Training schedule. The regular season begins with the Dodgers hosting the Cardinals on March 28, aligning with the rest of the league’s opening games. While a 10-day IL placement technically implies Sheehan may not miss any regular-season action due to the unique schedule, the team is likely to prioritize his full recovery and readiness for future appearances on the mound.
Selected in the sixth round of the 2021 draft by the Dodgers, Sheehan made his MLB debut last season, recording a 4.92 ERA over 60 1/3 innings. His swift ascent to the major leagues was influenced by the team’s rotation injuries, and despite some unimpressive hard-contact and walk rates, Sheehan held his own against big league hitters.
With only 9 2/3 Triple-A innings to his name, Sheehan’s injury temporarily halts his quest for the fifth spot in the Dodgers’ rotation at the start of camp. Depending on his recovery progress and the health status of regular starters, Sheehan might transition into more of a Triple-A depth role.
Now out of contention, Michael Grove, rookies Gavin Stone and Kyle Hurt, and swingman Ryan Yarbrough are vying for starting positions. The top four in the Los Angeles rotation include Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Tyler Glasnow, James Paxton, and Bobby Miller, with Walker Buehler expected to start the season on the IL as he continues his recovery from Tommy John surgery. Clayton Kershaw and Dustin May are also anticipated to join the rotation after the midpoint of the season.
