Blake Snell Sends Message to Shohei Ohtani After MLB’s Announcement

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Cole Hudson | Last updated May 4, 2026 3:01 PM ET

The Los Angeles Dodgers look strong this season, leading their division at 21–13. Still, they’re navigating a puzzling stretch, going 5–5 over their last 10 games despite a top-tier offense that has shown inconsistency.

Designated hitter Shohei Ohtani and first baseman Freddie Freeman continue to anchor the lineup, providing steady production. On the pitching side, injuries have taken a toll.

Left-hander pitcher Blake Snell remains on the injured list with lingering shoulder fatigue and inflammation dating back to the 2025 offseason. He has begun a rehab assignment with Triple-A Oklahoma City, throwing four innings on 55 pitches (37 strikes), allowing two runs on two hits while striking out four.

Los Angeles Dodgers starting pitcher Blake Snell (7)© Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images

The Dodgers could soon receive a major boost to their rotation, as Blake Snell is on track to rejoin the club during the week of May 11, 2026. The elite left-hander is known for his swing-and-miss arsenal, high strikeout rates, and giving Los Angeles another frontline arm.

Ohtani has once again been outstanding, particularly on the mound, continuing to prove his two-way value. Snell recently reposted an Instagram message recognizing Ohtani’s NL Pitcher of the Month honor, showing support for his teammate.

Ohtani earned the award after a dominant April stretch, posting a 0.60 ERA, 0.87 WHIP, and 34 strikeouts across 30 innings pitched.

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Ohtani continues to prove he can be the best pitcher in baseball, dominating on the mound this season. Snell also delivered a strong season for the Dodgers last year, posting a 2.35 ERA and 1.22 WHIP with 72 strikeouts across 61.1 innings.

While solid, it wasn’t his peak; that came in 2023 with the Padres, when he won the Cy Young Award. Snell owns two Cy Youngs, two ERA titles, and an All-Star selection, and is coming off a World Series title. He signed a five-year, $182 million deal with the Dodgers in November 2024.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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