Dodgers Star Pitcher Taking Big Step Amid Injury Rehab

The Los Angeles Dodgers rotation has dealt with its fair share of injuries this season, from Clayton Kershaw to Yoshinobu Yamamoto to Walker Buehler. Yamamoto, in particular, hasn't pitched since mid-June due to a rotator cuff injury.

The Japanese phenom is currently on the 60-day IL and can't be activated until August 16. That being said, Yamamoto did throw his second bullpen session on Tuesday and will face live hitters on the Dodgers' upcoming road trip to Milwaukee for the first time since going on the shelf, per Fabian Ardaya.

Yamamoto has been solid for LA after signing a historic 12-year, $325 million deal last offseason. He's gone 6-2 with a 2.92 ERA in six starts in 2024, striking out 84 hitters in 74 innings while surrendering just 17 walks.

If Yamamoto does stay healthy, he could certainly emerge as the ace of this staff. The 25-year-old would take the hill against the St. Louis Cardinals if he did return on Aug. 16.

Related: Dodgers Manager Reveals Mookie Betts Plan Amid Injury