The Dodgers' Blake Snell is back on the injured list, just a week after his return. This time, it's due to 'loose bodies' in his throwing elbow, a recurring issue that has caused him to miss significant time in the past. Snell's recent activation from the injured list was short-lived, as he only made one start before re-injuring himself. This is a setback for the Dodgers, who had high hopes for Snell's performance after a slow start to the season.
Snell's history with this particular injury is concerning. In 2019, he underwent arthroscopic surgery to remove loose bodies from the same elbow, resulting in a six-week absence. While this injury is not related to his previous shoulder issue, it highlights the ongoing challenges Snell has faced with his throwing arm. The Dodgers' decision to activate Snell despite his limited rehab time may have contributed to this recent setback.
Manager Dave Roberts reported that Snell felt discomfort during a game of catch, leading to the discovery of the loose bodies. The team is currently assessing the situation, with no immediate plan for surgery. Despite the uncertainty, it is expected that Snell will return to the field before the season ends, though a precise timeline remains unknown.
This development raises questions about the Dodgers' strategy for managing Snell's health. The team's decision to rush him back into action may have contributed to the re-injury, and it remains to be seen how they will approach his recovery and rehabilitation moving forward. The Dodgers' front office will need to carefully consider their approach to ensure Snell's long-term health and effectiveness on the mound.