Dodgers’ Tyler Glasnow is optimistic about recovery from shoulder injury

Los Angeles Dodgers starting pitcher Tyler Glasnow is expressing optimism about his recovery from a shoulder injury that has sidelined him since late April. As one of several key Dodgers pitchers currently on the injured list, Glasnow’s positive outlook provides a glimmer of hope for a pitching staff grappling with significant health challenges early in the 2025 MLB season.

The Injury and Its Timeline

Tyler Glasnow, a 31-year-old right-hander, sustained a shoulder injury on April 27, 2025, during a game against the Pittsburgh Pirates. He exited that start early, and was subsequently placed on the 15-day injured list due to right shoulder inflammation. More recently, he was transferred to the 60-day injured list, making him eligible to be activated no earlier than June 27.

This latest setback is particularly frustrating for Glasnow, who also dealt with right elbow tendinitis last season, preventing him from pitching in the postseason. His history of injuries has been a recurring theme throughout his career, making every step of his recovery process a closely watched development for the Dodgers and their fans. Glasnow signed a substantial $135.5 million, five-year deal before the 2024 season, underscoring the team’s significant investment in his talent and their desire for him to be a cornerstone of their rotation.

Glasnow’s Optimistic Outlook

Despite the frustrating nature of his injury and the uncertainty surrounding his exact return date, Tyler Glasnow remains remarkably optimistic about his recovery. He recently downplayed concerns about “general body soreness” that manager Dave Roberts had mentioned, clarifying that it was primarily back tightness after a bullpen session that prompted a precautionary rest.

“My shoulder is totally fine,” Glasnow stated on Tuesday. “That issue I haven’t felt since I’ve been throwing. Literally just a precaution, that’s all. Totally fine, I’m good to go.” He emphasized that he and the team are “on the same wavelength” regarding his recovery, indicating a collaborative and cautious approach.

Glasnow has resumed throwing, playing catch in the outfield, and plans to throw another bullpen session later this week. His goal is clear: “I’ll be back as soon as I can in a healthy way to help the team in the playoffs is my goal.” This focus on being healthy for the postseason reflects the Dodgers’ championship aspirations and Glasnow’s desire to contribute when it matters most. While there isn’t a firm timetable for his return to game action, his progression and positive mindset are encouraging signs.

The Dodgers’ Pitching Injury Woes

Glasnow’s injury is part of a broader and concerning trend for the Los Angeles Dodgers’ pitching staff in 2025. The team has been hit hard by injuries, with a significant number of pitchers, including several key starters, currently on the injured list. This extensive list includes:

• Blake Snell: Also dealing with shoulder inflammation and a non-linear rehab progression.
• Roki Sasaki: Sidelined with a right shoulder impingement.
• Shohei Ohtani: While not on the injured list for pitching, he is not expected to return to the mound until after the All-Star break as he recovers from elbow surgery.
• Emmet Sheehan: Recovering from right elbow surgery.
• Michael Kopech: Dealing with a right shoulder impingement.
• Blake Treinen: Out with forearm tightness.
• Evan Phillips: Out for the season after Tommy John surgery.
• Brusdar Graterol: Recovering from shoulder surgery.
• Gavin Stone: Out for the season after right shoulder surgery.
• Michael Grove: Out for the season after shoulder surgery.
• Kyle Hurt: Recovering from Tommy John surgery.
• River Ryan: Recovering from Tommy John surgery.
• Edgardo Henriquez: Recovering from a left foot fracture.
• Luis García: Dealing with a right adductor strain.
• Kirby Yates: Sidelined with a strained hamstring.

This extensive list of injured pitchers has forced the Dodgers to rely heavily on their depth and make strategic roster moves. Despite these challenges, the team has managed to maintain a strong record, demonstrating the resilience and overall talent of the roster. However, the long-term health of their pitching staff, particularly key starters like Glasnow, will be crucial for their sustained success and playoff push.

Outlook for Glasnow and the Dodgers

Tyler Glasnow’s optimism is a welcome development for the Dodgers. His ability to resume throwing and his clear communication about his progress suggest that his recovery is on a positive trajectory, even if it’s not entirely linear. The team’s cautious approach, prioritizing his long-term health and availability for the playoffs, is a sensible strategy given his injury history and the significant investment in him.

As Glasnow continues his rehab, the focus will be on building up his arm strength and endurance, eventually progressing to facing live hitters. His return would provide a significant boost to the Dodgers’ rotation, adding another high-caliber arm to their arsenal as they aim for a deep postseason run. The collective health of the pitching staff will undoubtedly be a defining factor in the Dodgers’ 2025 season, and Glasnow’s return will be a key piece of that puzzle.