Dodgers' Gavin Stone Faces Shoulder Setback Ahead of Opening Day

Pitcher's recovery timeline uncertain as other Dodgers pitchers make progress

Apr. 10, 2026 at 7:40am

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A cubist-style painting depicting a Dodgers pitcher's throwing motion broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes in shades of blue, red, and yellow, conveying the complex and fragmented nature of the recovery process.The Dodgers' cautious approach to pitcher recovery highlights the unpredictable nature of injury timelines in professional baseball.Los Angeles Today

Dodgers pitcher Gavin Stone's journey to the opening day roster has hit a setback. After an impressive start in the Cactus League, Stone's right shoulder surgery recovery has taken an unexpected turn. A bullpen session led to soreness, prompting a reevaluation of his progress. Manager Dave Roberts shared that Stone's setback is a reminder that recovery timelines can be unpredictable, even for elite athletes.

Why it matters

This isn't the first time the Dodgers have faced similar challenges with injured pitchers. The team's approach to rehabilitation seems to prioritize long-term health over early returns, which could impact their opening day roster and early-season performance.

The details

Stone's setback comes as other Dodgers pitchers are making steady progress. Walker Buehler and Tony Gonsolin, both recovering from Tommy John surgery, didn't return to the mound until well into the season. River Ryan, who underwent Tommy John surgery in September 2024, is also in a similar situation. Meanwhile, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Tyler Glasnow, and Shohei Ohtani are all on track, with Ohtani continuing his build-up even after the World Baseball Classic. Roki Sasaki is adding new pitches to his repertoire, and Emmet Sheehan, despite a recent flu, is still in the running for a rotation spot. The Dodgers' 40-man roster includes Landon Knack, and Cole Irvin, a veteran from the KBO, is also in the mix.

  • After an impressive start in the Cactus League, Stone's right shoulder surgery recovery took an unexpected turn.
  • A bullpen session led to soreness, prompting a reevaluation of his progress.

The players

Gavin Stone

Dodgers pitcher who is facing a setback in his recovery from right shoulder surgery.

Dave Roberts

Dodgers manager who shared that Stone's setback is a reminder that recovery timelines can be unpredictable.

Walker Buehler

Dodgers pitcher recovering from Tommy John surgery.

Tony Gonsolin

Dodgers pitcher recovering from Tommy John surgery.

River Ryan

Dodgers pitcher who underwent Tommy John surgery in September 2024.

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What they’re saying

“This isn't the first time the Dodgers have faced similar challenges. Recovery timelines can be unpredictable, even for elite athletes.”

— Dave Roberts, Dodgers Manager

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

The Dodgers' approach to pitcher rehabilitation prioritizes long-term health over early returns, which could impact their opening day roster and early-season performance as they navigate unpredictable recovery timelines for key pitchers.