Dodgers News: Tony Gonsolin Makes Bullpen Throwing Return After Major Surgery

Tony Gonsolin is making strides toward a return to the mound for the Los Angeles Dodgers .

The right-handed pitcher, who underwent Tommy John surgery less than a year ago, threw off the main mound at Dodger Stadium for the first time since his injury.

Gonsolin completed a bullpen session and expressed optimism about his potential to pitch this season to Doug Padilla of the Southern California News Group .

He has been throwing to hitters at the team’s complex in Glendale, Arizona, but has yet to participate in a game setting. His next throwing sessions are scheduled for Wednesday.

“I think there is definitely enough time to come back as a starter,” Gonsolin said Sunday. “We’ll see where we’re at. The main thing is just feeling healthy.”

Manager Dave Roberts indicated that if Gonsolin does return this season, it would likely be in a bullpen role.

“I think that’s a good mindset for Tony to kind of shoot for something this year,” Roberts said . “If all things line up, great, and if it doesn’t then we can pivot to ’25. But I think that his mindset that the door is not completely closed on ’24 is a good thing.”

While there is no set timeline for his comeback, Gonsolin hopes to have more clarity by early September, depending on how he feels after each live batting practice session.

“I will probably know if there is a chance, but we won’t know until we get there,” Gonsolin said . “We have to see how I am recovering after each live BP and go from there.”

Gonsolin was drafted in the ninth round of the 2016 MLB Draft and made his major league debut in 2019. He enjoyed a breakout season in 2022, earning an All-Star selection with a record of 16-1 and a 2.14 ERA.

However, he faced challenges in 2023, dealing with elbow discomfort that limited his performance and led to multiple stints on the injured list. His season ended when he was placed on the 60-day IL last August.

As he continues his recovery, Gonsolin remains focused on getting back to competitive play.