The Los Angeles Dodgers’ 2024 season hasn’t gone quite according to plan after a major offseason spending spree. While Los Angeles is still one of the better teams in baseball, they have had to contend with several injuries to key players on the roster.
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The Dodgers have been hit by a number of injuries that are dragging them down the standings, including right-hander Walker Buehler, who has been out since June with inflammation of his right hip.
But field players also had to sit out for some time. Injuries played no role for the Dodgers this season.
Los Angeles has been without star Mookie Betts since June, who broke his hand in a hit by pitch. The Dodgers have also been without third baseman Max Muncy since May, who suffered a strained right oblique abdominal muscle.
However, it appears that Los Angeles is preparing to bring several players back from the injured list. Buehler, Muncy and Betts are all expected back soon, giving the Dodgers a huge boost heading into the final stretch of the season.
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Buehler is expected to return to the team next week, possibly facing the Milwaukee Brewers. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts spoke to reporters on Friday and provided an update on the right-hander.
“Walker was good yesterday. He got to the sixth inning, which was really good to see. The power, the stuff, everything was in sync. It seems doable to imagine him starting for us in Milwaukee. So we’re on trend.”
Buehler has looked a shadow of his former self this season, posting a 5.84 ERA in eight starts. Los Angeles hopes his stay on the injured list will help and Buehler can return to being the ace they know and love.
Muncy has faced several setbacks on his road back but appears to have turned things around recently. He is expected to complete a rehab assignment with Tripe-A Oklahoma City, which likely gives him the green light to return.
#Dodgers 3B Max Muncy and UTIL Tommy Edman will begin rehab duties at Triple-A OKC on Saturday. RHP Walker Buehler will likely re-enter the rotation next Thursday at Milwaukee.
— Mike DiGiovanna (@MikeDiGiovanna) 9 August 2024
Betts will return to the Dodgers next week after breaking his hand. Before his injury, Betts played shortstop for Los Angeles, but will now play in the outfield after his return.
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The return of all these players should help the Dodgers maintain their hold on the National League West division. Los Angeles has seen a large lead in the division shrink to just 2.5 games as of Saturday.
