Dodger Insights: Daniel Hudson’s Return, Fifth Starter Position, and More
Dodgers reliever Daniel Hudson has faced frustration and setbacks over the past two seasons due to knee issues. After missing two seasons with two Tommy John surgeries, his career as a starter was derailed, making the knee problems even more frustrating for him. The torn ACL in his left knee ended his 2022 season and continued to bother him into the following spring. Then, on July 5 last season, as he made a tear-filled return and recorded his first save in 13 months, he felt his right knee give way. A sprained MCL in that knee shut him down again, and he spent the final months of the season preparing for another comeback. Unfortunately, time ran out, and he was left unsure of his future.
As Hudson pondered retirement, he gave himself eight weeks to make sure his knees felt better. When he passed that initial test, he decided to aim for a 15th big-league season. He returned to Dodgers camp as a non-roster invitee on a minor-league deal, with the potential to earn up to $4 million if he makes the big-league roster. Hudson expressed his desire to retire with the Dodgers, stating that there is something special about being a Dodger and that the organization has taken care of him and his family over the past couple of years.
During spring training, Hudson’s knees have been cooperating, and his arm still feels good. He has been clocking in the mid-90s with his fastball. While there is no hard date for Hudson to be put back on the big-league roster, manager Dave Roberts has stated that Hudson will be in their bullpen. Hudson himself hasn’t had a conversation with the organization about his status as the club prepares to leave for Korea.
In addition to Hudson’s return, there is also competition for the fifth starter position. Emmet Sheehan, the lead contender for the position, will start the season on the injured list due to a sore shoulder. This opens the door for players like Gavin Stone, Michael Grove, Ryan Yarbrough, and Kyle Hurt. Stone appears to have the inside track, having gained 12 pounds of muscle and improving his fastball velocity. Grove’s success lies in his slider, while Yarbrough is likely to be targeted for swingman duty. Hurt still needs further development before taking on a major role.
Another player who has caught the Dodgers’ attention is non-roster invitee Justin Wilson. The left-handed reliever, who hasn’t pitched since 2022 due to Tommy John surgery and a lat injury, has impressed during camp. When healthy, Wilson has been a productive reliever throughout his career. Although his last season with at least 40 appearances and an ERA under 4.00 was in 2019, he adds depth to the Dodgers bullpen.
Finally, Blake Treinen, who has shown promise after missing most of the past two seasons due to shoulder trouble, underwent X-rays and a CT scan after taking a comebacker off his right midsection during a spring outing. The Dodgers are waiting for the results to determine the extent of his injury.
As the Dodgers prepare for the upcoming season, they are hopeful that Hudson’s knees will continue to cooperate and that their bullpen and fifth starter position will be solidified. With talented players vying for spots and potential depth additions like Justin Wilson, the team is focused on making another strong run in the MLB.