Shoulder woes for Gavin Stone: A Setback in the Making
Shoulder discomfort has sidelined Dodgers pitcher Gavin Stone, raising concerns about his availability for the upcoming season.
This is a worrying development for Stone, who missed the entire 2025 season due to shoulder surgery. The operation was extensive, involving repairs to his labrum, capsule, and rotator cuff. After the procedure in October '24, Stone was ruled out for the following season, leaving him with a long road to recovery.
Despite entering camp without restrictions, Stone's recent setback is a reminder of the fragility of athletes' bodies. He impressed in his Spring Training debut, striking out two in a perfect inning, but a subsequent bullpen session revealed a flare-up in his shoulder. While there's no structural damage indicated, the Dodgers are taking a cautious approach, shutting him down from throwing for now.
But here's where it gets controversial: Stone's health history and the team's six-man rotation plan. With Blake Snell also facing an injured list stint due to arm fatigue, Stone had a strong chance to secure a spot in the rotation if he remained healthy. Now, the competition for that final rotation spot is heating up.
The top four spots are expected to be occupied by Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Tyler Glasnow, Shohei Ohtani, and Roki Sasaki. Ohtani's participation in the World Baseball Classic and potential pitch count restrictions add an interesting dynamic. Emmet Sheehan, despite a camp delay due to illness, is also in the mix and could win a rotation spot.
That leaves one more spot up for grabs, and several contenders are vying for it. River Ryan, who missed 2025 rehabbing Tommy John surgery, is back to full health this spring. Lefty Justin Wrobleski could start or work out of the bullpen, while Landon Knack and veteran Cole Irvin are also in the running.
And this is the part most people miss: Kyle Hurt, another right-hander, is not in the rotation mix according to manager Dave Roberts. Hurt, who underwent Tommy John surgery in July '24, is being viewed as a reliever capable of multiple-inning stints. His sharp performance early in camp, striking out six batters in three innings, showcases his potential in the bullpen.
So, while Gavin Stone's shoulder discomfort is a setback, it opens up an intriguing competition for the final rotation spot. Who will step up and claim it? And what does this mean for the Dodgers' season ahead? Let's discuss in the comments and share your thoughts on this developing story!
