Dodgers Announce Blake Snell Move Ahead of MLB Season

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Gavin Groe | Last updated Mar 25, 2026 3:19 PM ET

The Los Angeles Dodgers starting rotation features some of the best arms in baseball. The only problem for the Dodgers in recent years has been keeping those players healthy.

One pitcher who has frequently dealt with injuries, both in Los Angeles and throughout his career, is left‑hander Blake Snell. Snell joined the Dodgers last winter on a five‑year, $182 million contract in one of the first major moves of that offseason.

The 33‑year‑old veteran made just 11 regular‑season starts last year due to left shoulder inflammation. Still, when he was on the mound, Snell looked like himself, posting a 2.35 ERA with 72 strikeouts in 61 1/3 innings.

Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Blake Snell (7) © Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

Snell continued that success in the MLB playoffs and played a key role in delivering Los Angeles its second straight World Series title in 2025. However, those contributions came at a cost.

Snell carried an increased workload last October and pushed through general left arm soreness that lingered into spring training. As a result, he was unable to pitch until March 12, when he finally threw his first bullpen session.

With Opening Day just one day away, that was not nearly enough time for Snell to be ready for the start of the regular season. On Wednesday, the Dodgers updated his status by placing him on the 15‑day injured list due to left shoulder fatigue, according to their MLB transactions log.

In addition, Tommy Edman, Brusdar Graterol, Blake Snell, Brock Stewart, Gavin Stone and Landon Knack were placed on the injured list.
— Blake (@ByBlakeWilliams) March 25, 2026

This is disappointing for Snell, even if the Dodgers are likely being cautious knowing they need him healthy for the postseason rather than immediately. It is at least encouraging that he was placed on the 15‑day injured list instead of the 60‑day version, which suggests he should return before the end of May barring any setbacks.

Snell’s impact once he returns should make an already formidable Dodgers roster even more dangerous. He has collected two ERA titles, two Cy Young Awards and one All‑Star selection across a decade in MLB. Before arriving in Los Angeles, Snell previously suited up for the Tampa Bay Rays, San Diego Padres and San Francisco Giants.

For a Dodgers team chasing a third straight championship, getting Snell back healthy could be one of the defining factors of their season.

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

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