The Los Angeles Dodgers are preparing to address their bullpen needs ahead of the MLB trade deadline on July 31 while expecting several injured players to make comebacks. Among those progressing toward rejoining the team are Max Muncy, Blake Treinen, Blake Snell, and Roki Sasaki, all currently on the injured list but showing promising signs of recovery. Muncy’s recovery from a bone bruise in his left knee is advancing faster than anticipated, with Treinen close to activation, Snell following closely behind, and Sasaki likely returning in late August.

Blake Treinen Nears Activation Following Rehab Appearances

Blake Treinen has completed six rehab appearances, primarily pitching for Triple-A Oklahoma City, with one outing in the Arizona Complex League during the All-Star break. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts indicated that Treinen is expected to pitch again on Thursday night, completing back-to-back appearances that will serve as the final assessment before potentially being activated to the major league roster.

Blake Snell’s Rehab Starts Progress Toward Rotation Return

Blake Snell is slated to make his fourth rehab start with the Great Lakes Loons, also known as the Comets, on Saturday. He has pitched once each for Single-A Rancho Cucamonga and the ACL Dodgers, and upon completion of two starts with the Comets, the plan is for Snell to reach five innings and roughly 75 pitches. This progression could enable his return to the Dodgers’ starting rotation as early as next week.

Roki Sasaki Advances in Rehabilitation, Eyes Late August Comeback

Roki Sasaki remains the most distant from returning but has made steady progress, recently throwing 39 pitches during a bullpen session and scheduled for another session before facing live batters at Camelback Ranch. Manager Dave Roberts expressed optimism, saying,

“Things obviously have shown that things happen, and we’ve got to kind of read and react, but to get more guys back on line to backfill or be at the forefront, anyway you want to see it, is really exciting.”

Roberts also emphasized Sasaki’s talent and potential to exceed expectations this season.

Max Muncy Accelerates Recovery with Return to Batting Practice

Max Muncy has steadily increased his activity level, recently fielding ground balls at third base and taking batting practice on the field for the first time since injuring his left knee. His next step involves facing pitchers live at Camelback Ranch. Manager Roberts noted,

“Max is going to go to Arizona and take live at-bats for a few days,”

adding,

“As we get through the weekend we’ll see where he’s at to potentially go on rehab the next week.”

These developments signal Muncy could rejoin the team soon, providing a boost before the trade deadline.

Tony Gonsolin’s Recovery Faces Uncertainty with No Throwing Yet

Unlike the positive strides from other injured pitchers, Tony Gonsolin remains sidelined with right elbow discomfort. Placed on the 15-day injured list on June 7 and moved to the 60-day injured list on June 19, Gonsolin has yet to begin any throwing program. Manager Roberts indicated a decision regarding his status is imminent, stating,

“We’re going to have to make a decision with Tony soon. I’m not sure what that is, but we’re going to have to make a decision at some point.”

Implications for Dodgers’ Season and Trade Deadline Strategy

The progress of Max Muncy and the returning pitchers offers the Dodgers valuable depth as they approach the July 31 trade deadline. Activating Treinen and Snell could strengthen the bullpen and rotation, while Sasaki’s return later in the season could provide additional pitching options. Muncy’s return bolsters the infield and offensive lineup following his knee injury. How Tony Gonsolin’s situation resolves will also influence the team’s pitching strategy moving forward. These injury recoveries will play a crucial role in shaping roster decisions and the Dodgers’ quest for postseason success.

Our Reader’s Queries

Q. Are there two Max Muncy?

A. Max Muncy (A’s): It’s a curious coincidence. No, your eyes aren’t playing tricks: Major League Baseball has two players named Max Muncy.

Q. Are there two Max Muncy’s?

A. In Major League Baseball, there are two players with the name Max Muncy. One was born on August 25, 1990, and the other on August 25, 2002.