The Los Angeles Dodgers boast one of the most formidable starting rotations in baseball, headlined by stars like Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Blake Snell, Tyler Glasnow, and Shohei Ohtani. But here’s the twist: while their top-tier talent is undeniable, the team’s ability to defend their World Series title might hinge just as much on the pitchers rounding out the back end of their rotation. And this is where things get intriguing—and a little controversial.
With Blake Snell’s season debut likely delayed due to offseason shoulder soreness, two rotation spots are up for grabs. Enter Emmet Sheehan and River Ryan, two talented arms with their own injury histories, both determined to prove they’re ready for the big leagues. But here’s where it gets controversial: Can they truly put their past injuries behind them, or are they one misstep away from another setback? Let’s dive in.
Sheehan, who missed the entire 2024 season after undergoing Tommy John surgery, has been on a mission to rebuild his strength and refine his mechanics. “I’m just trying to set myself up as best as possible to be healthy at the end of the year and contribute,” he said during spring training. His 2023 campaign showed promise—a 2.82 ERA and 30.6% strikeout rate in 15 appearances—but his postseason struggles in the bullpen (8.59 ERA) raised questions. Is he a starter or a reliever? Sheehan believes his time in the bullpen taught him to be “locked in from pitch one,” a mindset he’s carrying into 2026. But can he balance that intensity over multiple innings as a starter?
Meanwhile, River Ryan, who also underwent Tommy John surgery, has been quietly fine-tuning his arsenal. The 27-year-old former infielder turned pitcher has elite stuff—an upper-90s fastball, a nasty slider, and a curveball that misses bats. But here’s the part most people miss: Ryan’s focus hasn’t just been on his pitches; it’s been on his body. After bulking up from 195 to 231 pounds, he believes he’s built to withstand the rigors of a full MLB season. “My main goal is to have a healthy season,” he said. “I think it would build a lot of assurance and confidence.”
Both pitchers have compelling cases, but the Dodgers’ decision won’t be easy. Roki Sasaki, another injury-prone talent, is also in the mix, though his lack of a reliable third pitch might keep him in the minors. So, who gets the nod? Is it Sheehan, with his proven track record and newfound bullpen mentality? Or Ryan, with his electric stuff and transformed physique? Or does Sasaki’s potential outweigh his current limitations?
Here’s the thought-provoking question for you: In a sport where injuries are inevitable, should teams prioritize proven performance or untapped potential when filling rotation spots? Let us know in the comments—and don’t hold back. The Dodgers’ World Series hopes might just depend on it.
