Dodgers Roster News: Tony Gonsolin, Miguel Rojas, Will Smith Injury Updates
Ahead of Sunday afternoon's series finale in Chicago, we got a series of positive updates on the injury front for the Dodgers. From what Dave Roberts is saying, it looks like the roster should start looking healthier in the next week to 10 days.
Here's the latest out of Wrigleyville.
When is Tony Gonsolin Returning?
First up, let's look at the latest on injured starting pitcher, Tony Gonsolin. Tony has been out since the second week of spring training after rolling his ankle doing defensive drills at Camelback Ranch. At the time the hope was that he'd just miss a start or two in spring but it turned into what's now sounding like a late April return.
Gonsolin joined the team in Chicago on Sunday leading to the question, will he be replacing the injured Michael Grove?
"He's here for a purpose. A likely possibility for Tony to start on Wednesday makes sense. ... He feels good about it, he's on board with where he's at as far as the build up and he's the best option right now."
Dave Roberts will seldom give a direct answer on things like this, but yes, Tony will be starting on Wednesday in Pittsburgh (so feel free to pick him up for your fantasy roster, if you need a guy). The target is 4 innings and 60 pitches.
When Will Miguel Rojas Be Activated?
Doc also had an update on Miguel Rojas. The shortstop was placed on the 10-day IL on Wednesday with a left hamstring strain. The team has mostly gone with journeyman infielder Luke Williams in his place at short but gave Mookie Betts the start there on Sunday.
"He's doing much better. He already ran. He's going to hit, he's going to take some grounders today. I don't know went that 10 day is up but he's pretty encouraged about being ready when needed."
That should put Miggy back on the active roster by the time the Dodgers get back to LA for a 6 game homestand against the Cardinals and Phillies.
Is Will Smith Feeling Better?
Dave also had another quick update on catcher Will Smith, who is on the 7-day concussion IL. It was another positive update and sure makes it sound like he could be activated at the same time at Rojas back in LA.
"Symptom free yesterday. Today same. I don't see him playing in the next series but we'll see when we get home."
The Dodgers look to take the series against the Cubs before heading into an off day in Pittsburgh tomorrow.
