Dave Roberts Reveals Why Dodgers Shut Down Blake Snell’s Throwing

Blake Snell missed his scheduled bullpen session on Wednesday. 

After feeling discomfort in his throwing shoulder on Tuesday, the Los Angeles Dodgers decided to shut down Snell’s throwing. Snell’s shoulder will get re-examined when the Dodgers return to Los Angeles from Chicago on Thursday or Friday.

More news: Will Smith Reveals Why He’s Out of Dodgers Lineup Despite Multiple Off Days This Week

“As he was playing catch, (Snell) just didn’t feel great,” Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said of the reason for Snell’s shut down. “So right now we’re gonna slow-play the throwing and probably get it looked at again when we get back home.”

Roberts emphasized the organization is prioritizing the postseason, as they manage Snell’s injury. The Dodgers would prefer postponing a bullpen session to risk worsening the discomfort this early in the season.

Despite the organization’s caution through Snell’s recovery, Roberts said the injury is not concerning.

“I wouldn’t say concerning,” Roberts said. “Because part of the messaging from us to Blake is, it’s about later on in the season. And if there’s any type of discomfort, let’s not try to fight through it.”

“So, I say this a lot, given where we’re at right now on the calendar, not concerned at all,” Roberts added.

Los Angeles acquired Snell at the end of November, signing the two-time Cy Young award winner to a five-year, $182 million contract.

But, Snell has only made two starts since joining Los Angeles this season. He is 1-0 and logged a 2.00 ERA while allowing 10 hits and seven runs (only two earned) through nine innings.

Then, the Dodgers placed Snell on the 15-day injured list on April 6 with left shoulder inflammation. He pitched on Opening Day against the Detroit Tigers but has not appeared on the mound since April 2.

Snell is one of 12 Los Angeles pitchers on the 15-day or 60-day IL. Starting pitcher Tyler Glasnow also dealt with cramps in his lower leg in his latest start, but isn’t expected to miss time.

Roberts initially said Snell could return to the mound sometime this week. But, with another setback keeping Snell on the sidelines, it is unclear when the southpaw will be back.

More news: Dodgers’ Mookie Betts Says Tommy Edman Has Played Key Role in Transition to Shortstop

Photo Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images

Have you joined our Discord Channel yet? Be a part of the ultimate Dodgers Nation community and get VIP Nation Access! Don’t miss out on real-time Dodgers talk, call-in access to Dodgers Dougout, behind-the-scenes content, exclusive interviews, giveaways, and more!