The Los Angeles Dodgers starting rotation has dealt with multiple injuries this year and just lost Emmet Sheehan for the rest of the season, but Bobby Miller continues to make progress toward a return.
“Really well,” Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said of Miller’s simulated game at Camelback Ranch on Wednesday. “He’s here now, he’s playing catch. It was two innings, the velocity was where it needed to be. I think it was (90) three to seven (mph), (90) three to eight, something like that.
“So if it goes well today, we’ll make a decision if it’s going to be another sim game or we’ll send him out on a rehab.”
Miller landed on the 15-day injured list April 13 due to right shoulder inflammation. His stint was backdated to April 10, and both Miller and the Dodgers anticipated his absence being on the short end due to an MRI of the troublesome shoulder not revealing any structural damage.
Wednesday’s throwing session at the Dodgers’ Spring Training facility was Miller’s first time facing batters since he was placed on the injured list.
The Dodgers have handled the 25-year-old with caution an, approach aided by the starting rotation recently finding its collective strive. The pitching staff combined for a Dodgers franchise record of 22 consecutive games with four runs or fewer allowed.
Once Miller does return, he’ll look to find better success after some inconsistent performance through three starts this season. Thus far he’s just 1-1 with a 5.40 ERA, 1.46 WHIP, and 18 strikeouts in 11.2 innings pitched.
How Bobby Miller’s return would impact rotation
Assuming the Dodgers’ rotation remains healthy up until Miller is activated, his return would give them six full-fledge starters.
The Dodgers have largely operated with a six-man rotation anyway in order to provide their starters with extra rest, and Miller would further solidify that. Another possibility would be for the Dodgers to option Gavin Stone to Triple-A Oklahoma City, but he’s put together a string of impressive outings.
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