The Los Angeles Dodgers bullpen has been a strong point to begin the 2022 season despite dealing with multiple injuries to pitchers who were expected to play a big role, including Victor González and Blake Treinen.
González was surprisingly placed on the 10-day injured list when the Dodgers set their Opening Day roster. The left-hander had a strong spring and looked like a lock for the bullpen, but started suffering from left elbow inflammation prior to the season beginning.
The 26-year-old underwent a cleanup procedure on his elbow Wednesday that will keep him out of action longer than previously anticipated, but everything went well with his surgery and he should return this season.
“From what I hear, he’s as good as expected,” Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said. “And they’re very hopeful that a return at some point in time this year is most likely.”
After a breakout season in 2020, González struggled last year and it was largely attributed to dealing with left plantar fasciitis and later right knee inflammation. González also dealt with weight gain but corrected that this past offseason by changing his diet and workout routine.
That translated into a phenomenal Spring Training as González looked to return to his 2020 form, when he was arguably the best reliever in the Dodgers bullpen.
When will González return?
Although the surgery went well, there is still no set timetable for González to come off the IL. Elbow injuries, even minor procedures, can sometimes be tricky for pitchers and the last thing the Dodgers would want to do is rush him back.
“I’m hesitant to say when but I just know that the later part of the year, late August. Something like that,” Roberts added.
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