Welcome to another edition of “Dodgers Chatter.” Today, we focus on Mookie Betts’ injury, updates to the pitching rotation, and potential trade rumors.
Mookie Betts Injury: SS Suffers Fractured Bone in Left Hand
In a significant blow to the Dodgers, Mookie Betts suffered a fractured bone in his left hand after being hit by a pitch from Dan Altavilla. Betts will be out “for some time,” though he won’t require surgery. This injury impacts both the Dodgers’ offense and defense, as Betts has been a key player, hitting .307/.407/.493 with 10 homers, 16 doubles, and nine stolen bases. His willingness to play shortstop has been crucial following Gavin Lux’s move from the position.
Infield Adjustments
With Betts sidelined, Miguel Vargas will be called back from Triple-A, and Miguel Rojas will take over as the primary shortstop. Enrique Hernandez will also factor into the infield mix, particularly at shortstop and third base. Max Muncy’s ongoing oblique injury adds to the infield’s challenges, making Rojas’ surprising offensive productivity (.278/.328/.444) more valuable than ever.
Bobby Miller’s Return
Bobby Miller is set to return to the Dodgers’ rotation next week, starting against the Rockies on Wednesday. After missing over two months due to shoulder inflammation, Miller’s return was expected to shift the Dodgers to a six-man rotation. This change would have provided extra rest for starters like Yamamoto and Glasnow. With the injury to Yamamoto, however, it now appears that a 6-man rotation is less likely. The club could decide to call up Landon Knack, who has been impressive as a starter for the Dodgers this year, and stay with the 6-man rotation idea.
Clayton Kershaw’s Rehab
Clayton Kershaw will begin a rehab assignment with Low-A Rancho Cucamonga on Wednesday. This will be Kershaw’s first game action of 2024 after undergoing shoulder surgery in November. If all goes well, Kershaw could return to the Dodgers’ rotation around the All-Star break, boosting the pitching staff.
Injuries to Yamamoto and Grove
The Dodgers have placed Yoshinobu Yamamoto on the 15-day injured list with a strained rotator cuff, and Michael Grove on the 15-day injured list with lat tightness. Yamamoto has been a standout with a 2.41 ERA over his last 12 starts, while Grove has shown potential despite recent struggles. In their absence, J.P. Feyereisen and Michael Petersen have been recalled to join the bullpen.
Trade Rumors: Tanner Scott
The Dodgers are reportedly among the teams interested in Marlins closer Tanner Scott. Known for his high velocity and strikeout ability, Scott has a 1.93 ERA this season. Acquiring Scott could bolster the bullpen, which has been impacted by injuries to Brusdar Graterol, Joe Kelly, and Ryan Brasier.