The Los Angeles Dodgers are fortunate to have their spot in the National League postseason bracket all but officially locked up as injuries have taken a toll on the roster both recently and throughout the season.
The list of injured Dodgers not returning this season includes Walker Buehler, Dustin May, Tony Gonsolin, Gavin Lux and Alex Reyes. Meanwhile, Blake Treinen, J.P. Feyereisen, Daniel Hudson and Jake Marisnick are unlikely to return.
Clayton Kershaw is also pitching through a shoulder issue and there are a few players dealing with an injury who are probable to return, including Joe Kelly, Michael Grove and Yency Almonte. David Peralta has also been day-to-day but seems to be doing well after getting hit by a pitch in the left elbow.
Dodgers injuries
David Peralta improving
Peralta was hit by a pitch on Sunday in the left elbow that forced him to be removed from the game. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts considered him day-to-day, and the veteran outfielder should be available to play on Tuesday.
“David is doing much better,” Roberts said. “He’s still got the seam marks on his elbow, but he’ll be available off the bench and in the lineup [Tuesday].”
Joe Kelly returning soon
Kelly has been dealing with right elbow/forearm inflammation but began a rehab assignment with Single-A Rancho Cucamonga last week and is now expected to be activated on Wednesday.
The right-hander only threw four pitches in his final rehab appearance, which caused some external concern, but Roberts said there is nothing to worry about.
“That was just Joe being Joe,” Roberts said. “I still think the plan is for him to be back with us on Wednesday.”
Kelly is not expected to be 100% at any point for the rest of the season but the club is confident he will be able to contribute in the postseason.
Michael Grove delayed
Grove has been on the 15-day injured list since August 6 due to right lat tightness, but was expected to return during the San Diego Padres series. However, that has been delayed.
“I don’t think that’s going to happen,” Roberts said. “I think originally that was the plan, but it’s changed. The hope is at some point soon he’ll be back with us.”
Roberts is unsure what is going on with Grove or where he is currently working out.
“I don’t know where he’s at,” Roberts said. “I think he’s in Arizona, but I’m not too sure.”
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