Dodgers' Blake Snell Takes Major Step in Recovery From Shoulder Injury

Veteran pitcher faces hitters for first time in 2026 as he works his way back from inflammation

Apr. 12, 2026 at 12:19am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the deconstructed motion of a baseball pitcher, with overlapping planes of muted colors representing the abstract movements of the athlete.Snell's methodical recovery process aims to keep the veteran pitcher healthy and effective for the Dodgers' playoff push.Los Angeles Today

Los Angeles Dodgers starting pitcher Blake Snell faced hitters for the first time in 2026, marking a key step in his recovery from a shoulder injury. Snell, a two-time Cy Young award winner, has been taking a cautious approach to his return, citing past experiences of rushing back too quickly from similar issues.

Why it matters

Snell's health is crucial for the Dodgers, who have a strong roster but need their veteran ace to anchor the rotation. His ability to manage his body and injuries has been a challenge throughout his career, but the Dodgers are giving him the time to recover properly.

The details

Snell threw a live session against hitters Tommy Edman and Alex Call on Saturday, describing it as 'a big step' in his recovery process. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said Snell is in a 'good spot' but tempered expectations, noting the next step will be two innings of simulated work against live hitters.

  • On Saturday, Snell faced hitters for the first time in 2026 before the Dodgers' game against the Rangers.

The players

Blake Snell

A two-time Cy Young award-winning starting pitcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers who is working his way back from a shoulder injury.

Dave Roberts

The manager of the Los Angeles Dodgers, who is overseeing Snell's recovery process and cautioning against rushing him back too quickly.

Tommy Edman

A hitter that Snell faced during his live session as part of his recovery.

Alex Call

Another hitter that Snell faced during his live session as part of his recovery.

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What they’re saying

“It's very big. Especially big-league hitters. … To be able to face two good hitters and feel good – I've got a lot of work to do still, but definitely a big step.”

— Blake Snell, Dodgers Starting Pitcher

“He's in a good spot.”

— Dave Roberts, Dodgers Manager

What’s next

Ideally, the next step for Snell is two innings of simulated innings against live hitters, according to Dodgers manager Dave Roberts.

The takeaway

Snell's cautious approach to his recovery, informed by past experiences of rushing back too quickly, shows his commitment to being fully healthy for the Dodgers. The team is giving him the time he needs, understanding his importance to their rotation and postseason hopes.