Dodgers plan six-man rotation until Ohtani returns to action

The Los Angeles Dodgers’ plan to implement a six-man rotation this season is on hold until Shohei Ohtani returns to pitching in May, according to team president Andrew Friedman.

With five scheduled off days in April and a deep pool of rotation candidates, the Dodgers believe they can manage a five-man rotation until Ohtani, the reigning AL MVP, is ready to take the mound following his second Tommy John surgery.

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The rotation features several high-profile names, including Japanese stars Yoshinobu Yamamoto and newly signed Roki Sasaki, both of whom are accustomed to extra rest between starts. Friedman emphasized the flexibility the team has to accommodate their schedules.

Blake Snell, a two-time Cy Young winner, and Tyler Glasnow will also be part of the rotation. The final spot could go to either Tony Gonsolin or Dustin May, though May might begin the season in the bullpen as he recovers from injuries. Bobby Miller and Landon Knack are also in the mix after making a combined 25 starts last season.

Meanwhile, veteran left-hander Clayton Kershaw will start the season on the 60-day injured list as he recovers from offseason knee and toe surgeries.

The Dodgers’ first spring training game is set for Thursday against the Chicago Cubs, with both teams opening the regular season in Tokyo on March 18-19.