While the Los Angeles Dodgers lost key contributors Brandon Morrow and Tony Watson from last year’s group of relievers, they restocked the bullpen by signing Tom Koehler. He looked to join a growing list of reclamation projects who found success after joining the Dodgers.
More specifically, in succeeding with the transition from starter to reliever. But Koehler’s season was grounded before it could even begin. He was removed from a second Spring Training appearance due to injury.
It was later deemed an anterior capsule strain in his right shoulder that didn’t require surgery but forced Koehler to begin the season on the 10-day disabled list. He’s since been transferred to the 60-day DL.
The right-hander only began throwing from long distance last month and more recently advanced to completing multiple bullpen sessions.
The second of which was late last week, and it left Koehler optimistic over progress being made in his recovery, per Mike DiGiovanna of the L.A. Times:
Reliever Tom Koehler (right-shoulder strain) threw about 25 pitches off a mound Thursday, his second bullpen session in his rehabilitation from an injury that has sidelined him all season. “He felt encouraged,” Roberts said. “He felt strong.” There is no timetable for his return.
At the time of signing Koehler, there was some thought Koehler would serve as one of the late-inning options to bridge the gap to closer Kenley Jansen. That may still hold true but Koehler doesn’t figure to be nearing a return.
A natural progression in his recovery would include facing batters in a simulated game, then a potential rehab assignment to get Koehler work in a live environment.
As part of our efforts to help you understand how we handle the personal information you share with us, and in preparation for the new European General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), we’ve updated our Privacy & Cookies Policy. The updated Privacy & Cookies Policy will take effect on May 22, 2018. By using our services on or after that date, you’ll be agreeing to our updated Privacy & Cookies Policy. We recommend that you read our updated Privacy & Cookies Policy in full.
