Dodgers Injury News: Dave Roberts Provides Latest Updates on Shelby Miller, J.D. Martinez, Joe Kelly
The Dodgers have been amazing in the month of August, only losing 4 games while pulling away with a clear lead and almost guaranteed win for the NL West division title. The team has been doing it off the backs of Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman all while missing some key veteran players like J.D. Martinez, Joe Kelly, and Shelby Miller.
Well, a return for all three of these names should be coming within the next days to weeks as Dave Roberts has said that these players have taken some big steps towards a return to the ballclub.
Joe Kelly was acquired at this year’s trade deadline along with Lance Lynn from the Chicago White Sox. While Lance Lynn has been thriving in his new environment going 4-0 in 5 starts with an amazing 2.03 ERA, Kelly’s return to Dodger blue was cut a little short after being placed on the 15-day IL with elbow inflammation after his last outing on August 9th.
Kelly has tossed 3.2 innings for the team and has not allowed a run so far, but, Kelly also has the furthest return date as he is scheduled to face hitters next week. A return may be possible within the next week or so.
Shelby Miller is set to join the Dodgers within the next few days already being in LA but not on the roster just yet. This is great news as he will return from the 60-day IL after dealing with a neck issue that caused him discomfort in his non-throwing arm making his entire shoulder stiff.
Miller will be returning after leaving in mid-June as one of the best bullpen pieces that the Dodgers had at the time. In 30 innings of work, Miller owned a 2.40 ERA while striking out 31 batters and only allowing 12 hits.
Miller has officially completed his rehab assignment after a lengthy recovery process and will look to join a bullpen that has seen some arms go on the IL recently. His addition will be very much appreciated.
J.D. Martinez has been dealing with a back/groin nagging injury for the entire month but he looks to be ready to begin his short rehab assignment and hopefully join the team at the end of next week.
Martinez’s injury was something he was trying to play through after receiving an epidural but he and the team decided that it was best for him to get a short stint on the IL to recover as best as he can so both sides can benefit from him come playoff time in October.
While the Dodgers sit at 82-49, the team is well on their way to clinching a playoff spot, but getting these veterans back in the lineup to get up to speed will help the Dodgers have a hopefully long postseason run.
Photo Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
Have you signed up for the Dodgers Nation newsletter yet? Get the latest news, rumors, highlights and more right in your inbox every day! Keep up to date on every single thing involving your boys in blue!
