Dodgers Insights: Snell Faces Graterol and Miller

Los Angeles Dodgers’ manager Dave Roberts addressed media representatives, including Jack Harris of the California Post, revealing key updates on player health within the team. Significant among these is left-handed pitcher Blake Snell, who is progressing in his preparation but is running out of time to be ready for Opening Day.

Blake Snell’s Progress and Future Outlook

The Dodgers recently secured a World Series victory, relying heavily on their starting pitchers due to a shaky bullpen. Snell notably pitched five innings in the first game of the World Series and returned for 6 2/3 innings in the fifth game. He later contributed an inning and a third from the bullpen in the decisive seventh game. By January, Snell reported feeling exhausted, urging a cautious approach to his ramp-up in spring training.

The organization prioritizes a long-term strategy instead of rushing to meet the Opening Day deadline. This method benefits from a deep roster, allowing players to focus on health to ensure they are competitive in October. Of note, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, who logged at least 113 innings last season, leads a rotation that remains strong without Snell.

Rotation Stability

The expected starters include:

• Yoshinobu Yamamoto
• Shohei Ohtani
• Tyler Glasnow
• Emmet Sheehan
• Roki Sasaki (likely the fifth starter)

Other pitchers like River Ryan, Ben Casparius, Justin Wrobleski, Kyle Hurt, Gavin Stone, and Landon Knack could step in if needed.

Brusdar Graterol’s Status

Shifting focus to the bullpen, Roberts mentioned Brusdar Graterol is in a “holding pattern” and has not thrown off a mound recently. Graterol, a vital piece of the Dodgers’ bullpen from 2020 to 2023, has dealt with numerous injuries, limiting him to seven games in 2024. While his surgery in 2025 impacted his availability, the organization is willing to wait until he fully recovers.

Bobby Miller’s Challenges

Furthermore, right-hander Bobby Miller has yet to throw off a mound this spring due to an unspecified arm issue. Roberts noted he hopes Miller can gradually increase his throwing in the upcoming weeks, contingent on resolving any current discomfort.

Miller debuted in 2023 with a commendable 3.76 ERA over 124 1/3 innings but faced struggles in 2024, posting an 8.52 ERA. Subsequently, he spent most of 2025 in Triple-A after a disappointing performance, transitioning from the rotation to a bullpen role without significant improvement.

His options remain open, allowing the Dodgers to develop him further in the minors while considering his potential value on the roster as a member of the 40-man squad.