The Los Angeles Dodgers are set to welcome a familiar ace back to the mound, as two-time Cy Young Award winner Blake Snell will make his season debut on Saturday against the Atlanta Braves. This highly anticipated matchup features two National League division leaders, adding extra excitement to the contest at Dodger Stadium.
Snell's return comes earlier than expected, following teammate Tyler Glasnow's early exit from a start this week due to back issues. Glasnow was placed on the 15-day injured list Friday with low back spasms. In a corresponding move, the Dodgers recalled right-hander Paul Gervase from Triple-A Oklahoma City to bolster the bullpen.
Snell, who signed a five-year, $182 million contract in November 2024, missed most of the 2025 regular season with a lingering shoulder injury. Despite limited action—making just 11 starts—the left-hander proved clutch in the postseason, posting a 3-2 record in six games and helping the Dodgers secure their second consecutive World Series title.
This season, Snell has been on the injured list since late March with left shoulder fatigue. He was originally scheduled for another minor league rehab start with Class A Ontario on Saturday, but the Dodgers have accelerated his timeline. Now, he'll face a tough Braves lineup in what promises to be a thrilling duel.
Glasnow, meanwhile, exited after just one inning against the Houston Astros on Wednesday. An MRI revealed "nothing really significant," according to manager Dave Roberts, who spoke Friday before the series opener against Atlanta. The 32-year-old right-hander had been off to a strong start this season, going 3-0 with a 2.72 ERA in seven outings.
For Dodgers fans, Saturday represents a bright spot in an otherwise challenging week. Snell's return not only boosts the rotation but also adds a veteran presence for the stretch run. The 6-foot-10 Gervase, 25, will look to make an impact after posting a 3.65 ERA in nine games for Oklahoma City and making a brief appearance for the Dodgers last season.
As the Dodgers gear up for this key series, all eyes will be on Snell to see if he can pick up where he left off in October. For fans heading to the ballpark, it's a chance to witness a potential postseason preview—and maybe even snag some new gear to show support for the reigning champs.