The Los Angeles Dodgers made a splash early in the offseason by signing Blake Snell to a five-year, $182 million contract. Even with joining a starting rotation loaded with talent, Snell’s proven track record is capable of making him the ace of the Dodgers pitching staff.
Snell enters his 10th season and his first with the Dodgers, but certainly has plenty of experience in the National League West. The 32-year-old had some struggles last year but in his final 14 starts, owned a 1.23 ERA, 1.77 FIP, 0.78 WHIP and .123 batting average allowed.
Having thrown multiple bullpen sessions and facing hitters in live batting practice, Snell now makes his Dodgers Spring Training debut in a start Tuesday against the Seattle Mariners.
“I think with Blake, obviously it’s a new team,” said manager Dave Roberts. “I’m not too concerned about much from him. Just get his work in, go out there and try to execute pitches. As I understand, it’s going to be two innings.”
Much has been made in the past about Snell being unable to consistently pitch deep into games, but after having a healthy run in recent seasons, he’s prepared to flip that narrative. Snell threw his first career no-hitter on Aug. 2, 2024, with the San Francisco Giants, when he carved the Cincinnati Reds.
Snell is expected to pitch during an exhibition game in Japan and has lobbied to make the start in the Dodger Stadium opener. He’s made two Opening Day starts in his career, including during the 2019 season with the Tampa Bay Rays and 2023 as a member of the San Diego Padres.
Dodgers relievers after Blake Snell
Justin Wrobleski, Ben Casparius, Julian Fernandez, Joe Jacques and Jose Rodriguez are scheduled to pitch after Snell’s outing.
Mookie Betts again gets the start at shortstop, as he continues his effort in becoming one of the game’s top players at the position. So far, his fielding and throwing have been on point.
Dodgers lineup
SS: Mookie Betts
2B: Tommy Edman
LF: Michael Conforto
3B: Kiké Hernández
1B: Miguel Rojas
RF: Eddie Rosario
C: Austin Barnes
CF: James Outman
DH: Ryan Ward
Mariners lineup
SS: J.P. Crawford
CF: Julio Rodríguez
LF: Randy Arozarena
C: Mitch Garver
1B: Tyler Locklear
2B: Ryan Bliss
RF: Dominic Canzone
3B: Ben Williamson
DH: Cole Young
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