The Los Angeles Dodgers starting rotation took a hit earlier this month when Tony Gonsolin suffered a sprained left ankle while walking off the field during a workout.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts initially believed the injury was minor but has since acknowledged it will be a while before Gonsolin is back on the mound. As a result, the right-hander is unlikely to be included on the Dodgers Opening Day roster.
Gonsolin nevertheless has continued to make progress and recently began throwing from 120 feet for the first time since sustaining his injury, per Bill Plunkett of the Southern California News Group:
Right-hander Tony Gonsolin has resumed his throwing program and progressed to long-tossing from 120 feet, according to Dodgers manager Dave Roberts.
That Gonsolin is already throwing from a long distance likely gives the Dodgers hope that he won’t be sidelined for an extended period of time.
Gonsolin made just one start in a Cactus League game this spring, throwing 2.1 scoreless innings against the Los Angeles Angels. He got through the outing unscathed despite allowing three hits and issuing two walks.
Considering the projected timeline, it may be unlikely that Gonsolin pitches in another Cactus League game before Spring Training concludes. He could find his way into a B game and remain at Camelback Ranch for extended Spring Training once the regular season begins.
Who will replace Tony Gonsolin?
Should Gonsolin not be ready to go for the start of the regular season, it creates an opportunity for Michael Grove or Ryan Pepiot to fill in. Both pitchers have impressed in camp and received praise from Roberts.
It’s plausible Grove and Pepiot both make the Dodgers Opening Day roster, with the former possibly taking on a swingman role out of the bullpen.
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