Blake Snell Sharp in Dodgers Return After Shoulder Injury
Blake Snell, the 32-year-old left-handed ace, made his first start since April 2 for the Los Angeles Dodgers on Saturday after being sidelined with shoulder inflammation. In his return against the Rays at Steinbrenner Field, Snell recorded eight strikeouts without a walk, a feat he hadn't achieved since July 2024. He showcased improved command, throwing 57 strikes on 86 pitches, with his fastball averaging 95.2 mph, and generated 19 swings and misses. Despite allowing two home runs to Yandy Díaz and three runs total in a 4-0 Dodgers loss, Snell's performance was seen as a positive step. Snell, who signed a $136.96 million free-agent contract this past offseason, completed a dominant minor-league rehab assignment, and his return represents a high-water mark for the Dodgers' rotation as they pursue a division title and World Series.
