The Los Angeles Dodgers took an unconventional approach to setting their bullpen for the Opening Day roster by including three starting pitchers in the group. David Price had volunteered for a role change, and Tony Gonsolin and Jimmy Nelson weren’t chosen for the fifth starter role.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts spoke highly of the group’s composition and the versatility that came with having three starters in the bullpen. However, there was near-immediate change as Gonsolin was put on the 10-day injured list with right shoulder inflammation on April 4, retroactive to three days prior.
He was shut down from throwing but has since been cleared to throw bullpen sessions. Gonsolin’s next time getting off a mound at the Dodgers’ alternate training site is expected to be part of a multiple-inning exercise on Sunday. Then a simulated game would follow later in the week.
“He feels great, were his words,” Roberts relayed.
When Gonsolin does return, he will be given an opportunity to secure a spot in the starting rotation due to void created by Dustin May requiring Tommy John surgery. “If we can get him to five (innings) and 75 (pitches), four and 60 is the floor, to entertain getting him back here,” Roberts said.
“We’ve still got a ways to go with Tony, but see him filling that starter role.”
Gonsolin has yet to appear in a game this season. He went 2-2 with a 2.31 ERA in nine games (eight starts) last year and placed fourth in National League Rookie of the Year voting.
Price getting right
Like Gonsolin, Price is also on the 10-day IL but making steady progress toward being activated.
“David threw another bullpen, I think [Friday], came out of it good. The velocities are good, he’s responding well, so just continuing to build him up and make sure that hamstring stays strong,” Roberts said.
“He’s progressing, I just don’t know the timetable but it’s going to be sooner than later.”
Price has been sidelined since April 26 with a Grade 2 right hamstring strain that the Dodgers expected would keep him out multiple weeks. Price is expected to return as a relief pitcher.
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