Dodgers' Snell Behind Schedule in Spring Training

Pitcher dealing with shoulder inflammation from last season, taking cautious approach

Feb. 19, 2026 at 4:23am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Blake Snell is behind the rest of the team's starting rotation in Spring Training preparations, as he continues to recover from left shoulder inflammation that caused him to miss four months last season. Snell is taking a more deliberate approach this year, prioritizing physical therapy and rest over rushing back, and has not yet thrown a bullpen session unlike his fellow projected rotation members.

Why it matters

Snell's delayed spring schedule is part of the Dodgers' overall cautious approach with their players, keeping October in mind rather than rushing anyone back. The team has significant pitching depth, so they can afford to be patient with Snell's recovery and ramp-up.

The details

Snell dealt with the shoulder issue last year that caused him to miss most of the season, only returning during the World Series. He did not publicly reveal the second bout of shoulder trouble until the offseason. Snell said he is focused on rebuilding strength and taking things slower this spring, after rushing his return last year. While other Dodgers starters have already faced hitters in live batting practice, Snell has only been playing catch so far and has not yet thrown a bullpen session.

  • Snell missed four months of the 2025 season due to the shoulder injury.
  • Snell returned during the 2025 World Series after his lengthy absence.
  • Snell revealed the second bout of shoulder trouble in the offseason following the 2025 season.

The players

Blake Snell

A 33-year-old starting pitcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers who is recovering from left shoulder inflammation that caused him to miss most of the 2025 season.

Dave Roberts

The manager of the Los Angeles Dodgers, who has discussed Snell's delayed spring training schedule and the team's cautious approach with him.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I know the day I went into PT to the day I left, it's night and day in strength and how it feels.”

— Blake Snell

“This year, I'm going to be a little slower in how I ramp up. Be a little more smarter on that, but I feel good.”

— Blake Snell

“He's playing catch, he's throwing. Once he gets off the mound, throws in the 'pen, faces some hitters, we'll know more. But obviously he's not there right now, so until he gets off the mound, I just really don't know.”

— Dave Roberts, Dodgers Manager

What’s next

Snell is expected to throw his first bullpen session of spring training in the near future, as the Dodgers continue to take a cautious approach with his recovery.

The takeaway

The Dodgers' deliberate handling of Snell's recovery from shoulder issues highlights the team's depth and willingness to prioritize long-term health over rushing players back, even if it means a delayed start to the spring for key rotation members.