The Los Angeles Dodgers face critical decisions as Shohei Ohtani prepares to return to the mound, particularly given their recent injury woes. The front office aims to avoid potential pitfalls of designating or trading players, particularly the former All-Star Tony Gonsolin, who has struggled with injuries. With a mediocre 5.00 ERA in 2025 and limited innings pitched, Gonsolin's future with the team may be in jeopardy, especially with the prospect of Ohtani's return potentially forcing a reevaluation of the pitching rotation.

Ohtani's comeback could signal a shift for Gonsolin, possibly moving him to a bullpen role or as a trade piece if the Dodgers' pitching can stabilize. Despite Gonsolin's previous success, including a low 2.14 ERA, the Dodgers currently have little room to maneuver. The organization must weigh the risks and rewards carefully, hoping Ohtani's return can catalyze a healthier pitching staff while also navigating the complexities of managing Gonsolin's role.

Midway through the season, the Los Angeles Dodgers are already on their 12th starting pitcher, with rookie Ben Casparius stepping into a pivotal role. Casparius, who boasts a 2.86 ERA and 46 strikeouts in 44 innings, has transitioned from a reliever to a starter due to a series of injuries within the rotation. Manager Dave Roberts has praised Casparius's growth and contributions, particularly noting that the team wouldn't have won certain games without him. His recent start against the San Diego Padres showcased his capabilities as he managed to throw four innings, allowing only one run while displaying a diverse pitching arsenal.

The Dodgers' challenges this season have opened the door for Casparius, as injuries to starters like Tony Gonsolin forced the team to rely on him. This situation reflects the team's need for depth and versatility in the wake of setbacks. As the Dodgers strive to maintain their lead in the NL West, Casparius's performance becomes increasingly critical to their aspirations for postseason success.

The Los Angeles Dodgers have been hit hard by injuries once again, with right-handed pitcher Tony Gonsolin being placed on the 15-day injured list due to an elbow issue. This development is particularly worrisome given Gonsolin's history, having missed the entire 2024 season after undergoing Tommy John surgery. Fortunately, reports indicate that his recently repaired ulnar collateral ligament is still intact. However, manager Dave Roberts has not provided a specific diagnosis or timeline for Gonsolin's return.

In his 2025 season, Gonsolin has struggled, posting a 5.00 ERA and a 5.96 FIP over 36 innings with 38 strikeouts against 18 walks. This marks a stark contrast to his impressive 2022 performance, where he recorded a 2.14 ERA and won 16 games. The Dodgers are already facing challenges in their starting rotation, as Gonsolin's absence will require the team to rely on Triple-A spot starters and potentially bullpen games. With additional injuries to pitchers like Tyler Glasnow and Blake Snell, the Dodgers may need to explore trade options for pitching depth as the summer deadline approaches.

Marcus Stroman's future with the New York Yankees is uncertain, especially after a series of injuries to fellow pitchers, including Gerrit Cole and Clarke Schmidt, which initially opened the door for him in the rotation. However, his own knee issues combined with a disappointing performance make his spot precarious. If Stroman is traded, the Los Angeles Dodgers might be a fitting destination, given their recent injury woes with Tony Gonsolin and other pitchers like Blake Snell and Tyler Glasnow on the injured list. The Dodgers would benefit from adding a veteran arm like Stroman, who could be acquired at a lower price as a pending free agent.

The latest updates on player injuries are crucial for fantasy baseball managers as every decision can impact their roster's success. Pablo Lopez of the Minnesota Twins faces a potentially season-ending shoulder injury, putting the team's pitching depth at risk. Bryce Harper is on the injured list with wrist inflammation, raising concerns about further issues due to overcompensation from earlier elbow troubles. Corbin Burnes is scheduled for Tommy John surgery, sidelining him for the rest of this season and possibly most of next year, significantly affecting his dynasty league value.

Logan Gilbert is on track for a return but will need to prove his readiness after a rehab stint. George Kirby, after a rough outing, is cleared to start and might be an undervalued buy-low target in fantasy leagues. Ryan Mountcastle's significant hamstring injury could open up opportunities for Coby Mayo and Ryan O'Hearn in Baltimore, while the Dodgers grapple with multiple injuries in their rotation, including Tony Gonsolin's elbow discomfort.