Dodgers' Emmet Sheehan Earns Starting Rotation Spot

The young pitcher will get his chance with Blake Snell sidelined to start the 2026 season.

Mar. 22, 2026 at 4:48pm

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The Los Angeles Dodgers have decided that right-hander Emmet Sheehan will be in their starting rotation to open the 2026 MLB season. This opportunity comes as the team's ace, Blake Snell, is dealing with a shoulder injury that could keep him out until at least the end of April. Sheehan, who made his MLB debut in 2023 but missed the 2024 season due to injury, had a solid 2025 campaign, going 6-3 with a 2.82 ERA in 12 starts and three relief appearances.

Why it matters

The Dodgers have a deep pitching staff, but Snell's injury creates an opening in the rotation that Sheehan can now fill. This is a big chance for the young pitcher to prove he can be a reliable starter for the defending World Series champions.

The details

Sheehan has limited major league experience, but he performed well enough last season to earn this opportunity. With Snell sidelined, the Dodgers have decided to give Sheehan a spot in the starting rotation to open the 2026 campaign.

  • Sheehan made his MLB debut in 2023.
  • Sheehan missed the entire 2024 season due to injury.
  • In 2025, Sheehan went 6-3 with a 2.82 ERA in 12 starts and three relief appearances.
  • Snell is expected to be out until at least the end of April 2026 due to a shoulder injury.

The players

Emmet Sheehan

A right-handed pitcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers who will be in the starting rotation to open the 2026 season.

Blake Snell

The Dodgers' ace pitcher who is dealing with a shoulder injury that could keep him out until at least the end of April 2026.

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What they’re saying

“Not that it should register as much of a surprise, but Emmet Sheehan said he's been told he will be a starter to open the year.”

— Fabian Ardaya, Reporter

What’s next

Sheehan will have the opportunity to prove he can be a reliable starter for the Dodgers as they await Snell's return from injury.

The takeaway

The Dodgers' depth on the mound will be tested early in the 2026 season, but Sheehan's chance to step up and solidify a spot in the rotation could pay dividends for the defending champions.