The Los Angeles Dodgers were likely to recall a pitcher from Triple-A Oklahoma City for a spot start this weekend, and that probability was effectively sealed when Eric Lauer was put on the 15-day injured list Wednesday.
With that need in mind, Emmet Sheehan appears to be in line for another opportunity with the Dodgers. Sheehan’s ongoing struggles in 2026 led to getting demoted at the beginning of August.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said at the time that he wanted the 26-year-old to get back to simply pitching and not being consumed by velocity or mechanics when on the mound.
Since being sent down to Triple-A, Sheehan has posted an excellent 1.50 ERA and 0.94 WHIP with 24 strikeouts against seven walks in 18 innings while holding hitters to a .161 batting average.
Sheehan was recently named the Pacific Coast League (PCL) Pitcher of the Week for Aug. 17-23 after a dominant start against the Sugar Land Space Cowboys (Houston Astros’ affiliate). The right-hander collected nine strikeouts and allowed just one hit over six scoreless innings.
The start came on 10 days of rest after he briefly rejoined the Dodgers for their series with the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field. Sheehan joined the team in the event length was needed out of the bullpen but he did not pitch in Denver and was optioned back to the Comets as the corresponding move to the Dodgers recalling Paul Gervase.
Sheehan is 4-8 with a 5.29 ERA and 1.29 WHIP in 95.1 innings across 20 starts for L.A. this season.
Emmet Sheehan’s best role with Dodgers
Although there’s an immediate need for a spot starter, Sheehan’s best opportunity to make an impact with the Dodgers could come as a relief pitcher. He has primarily started in his three big league seasons but notably pitched out of the bullpen during the playoffs last year.
Sheehan could also make additional spot starts if needed, which may be necessary with Shohei Ohtani still not cleared to pitch and Roki Sasaki expected to eventually move to the bullpen.
Though, the Dodgers have not yet ruled out Ohtani making a pitching return before the 2026 season ends despite lingering left knee and right bicep discomfort.
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