As the Dodgers approach May 2025, they are grappling with a significant injury crisis in their starting rotation, leaving only four active starters available.

Blake Snell is currently on the 15-day injured list due to shoulder inflammation, but his anticipated return could provide a much-needed boost to the rotation.

With the decline of the rotation, Dustin May, who has been used sparingly, may need to step up and pitch more frequently as the team cannot rely solely on bullpen games.

The Dodgers' bullpen has been heavily utilized, leading the league in innings pitched, while their starters have thrown the fewest, highlighting a reliance on bullpen games.

Adding to the rotation woes, Tyler Glasnow may also be headed to the injured list due to shoulder discomfort, further depleting their options.

Clayton Kershaw is on the 60-day injured list and has made rehab starts, but his return is contingent on recovery from toe surgery, with eligibility for reinstatement approaching the end of May.

Tony Gonsolin is set to make his return from Tommy John surgery, aiming to strengthen the rotation despite a previous injury setback during spring training.

Unfortunately, River Ryan and Gavin Stone are both unlikely to return in 2025 due to their own Tommy John surgeries, impacting the Dodgers' long-term pitching strategy.

Kyle Hurt and Emmet Sheehan are also recovering from Tommy John surgery, with limited prospects for return this season, although Sheehan may start rehab soon.

On a different note, Roki Sasaki is adjusting to MLB after his NPB career, currently holding a 3.55 ERA but facing challenges with strikeouts and walks.

In contrast, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, a 26-year-old rookie, is excelling, leading the majors in ERA and ERA+ despite limited innings in 2024 due to injury.

Lastly, Shohei Ohtani is recovering from his second Tommy John surgery and is being cautiously managed, with no immediate plans for a return to two-way play.