Emmet Sheehan was among the initial group of candidates to earn the final spot in the Los Angeles Dodgers’ Opening Day rotation as the fifth starter.
However, the right-hander has been limited since experiencing right shoulder soreness after a bullpen session last month that was notable for Shohei Ohtani tracking pitches in the batter’s box.
After being ruled out from potentially pitching in a Cactus League game this spring, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts confirmed that Sheehan will begin the 2024 season on the injured list.
In more positive news, the 24-year-old resumed throwing and completed his first bullpen session since the shoulder issue, via Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic:
Emmet Sheehan is throwing a bullpen right now. First one since complaining of shoulder soreness. Plan is for him to start the year on the IL.
— Fabian Ardaya (@FabianArdaya) March 10, 2024
While it is disappointing that Sheehan won’t be ready for the start of the season, the Dodgers have to be encouraged that he has already started a throwing progression. While there is no timeline for when he may pitch in a game, Sheehan figures to again receive opportunities at the Major League level this year.
Sheehan impressed as a rookie last season and showed some of the promise that made him a fast-rising prospect in the organization. He went 4-1 with a 4.92 ERA, 4.85 FIP, 1.19 WHIP and averaged 9.5 strikeouts per nine innings in 13 games (11 starts) for the Dodgers.
Options for Dodgers fifth starter after Emmet Sheehan injury
With Sheehan sidelined to begin the 2024 season, Gavin Stone will almost certainly be the Dodgers’ fifth starter come Opening Day.
The right-hander has excelled this spring, posting a 0.93 ERA and 0.62 WHIP in four Cactus League appearances (three starts) entering play Monday.
What’s more, Landon Knack was already sent to Minor League camp and Michael Grove has struggled a bit in two of his three Spring Training games thus far. Ryan Yarbrough is another option but Roberts previously explained the Dodgers prefer him in a swingman role.
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