The Los Angeles Dodgers wrapped up their first turn through the rotation with Shohei Ohtani delivering a masterful six innings of scoreless pitching against the Cleveland Guardians. The Dodgers are kicking off the season with a six-man rotation, a strategic move that could expand as Justin Wrobleski transitions from the bullpen.
Manager Dave Roberts is keeping things steady for now, opting for another cycle through the current rotation before potentially slotting in Wrobleski. With scheduled off days on the horizon, the team has some flexibility.
April 8 marks the first day a sixth starter might be necessary to maintain the rotation's rhythm. Alternatively, they could introduce Wrobleski earlier, providing their pitchers with an additional day of rest.
Wrobleski, a left-hander, made his season debut in Monday's game against the Guardians, surrendering three runs over four innings. He's one of several versatile pitchers the Dodgers can call upon this season, joining the likes of Emmet Sheehan and River Ryan. During Spring Training, Wrobleski showcased his dual capabilities, starting three games and making two relief appearances, posting a 3.65 ERA, 0.73 WHIP, and tallying 12 strikeouts over 12.1 innings.
Looking ahead, the Dodgers could have even more options for their rotation. Gavin Stone is on the comeback trail, having resumed his throwing program.
If all goes well, he could rejoin the team by May. Meanwhile, Blake Snell is also working his way back from shoulder fatigue, with a potential return in June or July.
Ryan is currently with Triple-A Oklahoma City, getting extra work in after returning from Tommy John surgery. The Dodgers are poised with a wealth of pitching talent, arguably the deepest they've ever had.
As for Wrobleski, he's reintroducing a cutter he first experimented with in 2025. This spring, he has been using it more frequently to enhance his pitching arsenal, complementing a changeup that he's grown more confident in. This expanded repertoire is part of his preparation for a potential role in the rotation, giving him a broader strategy to challenge hitters.