On a night when the Los Angeles Dodgers should have been celebrating another hard-fought victory, a familiar shadow crept over the team’s dugout. Just as the cheers from a 9-2 win against the Pittsburgh Pirates echoed through the stadium, the mood shifted–ace pitcher Tyler Glasnow, the $136.5 million centerpiece of the Dodgers’ rotation, walked off the mound for the second consecutive start, his face a portrait of frustration and uncertainty. Now, the front office faces a dilemma that could shape the rest of their season.

For Glasnow, this wasn’t just another injury–it was a cruel repeat of the setback he suffered only a week earlier. He had barely begun to regain his rhythm after a previous exit against the Texas Rangers, and now, with just 17 pitches thrown, he found himself shaking out his shoulder, forced to leave the game before the second inning could even begin. Now, he has been placed on a 15-day injured list.

With their $136.5 million star sidelined, the pressure mounts to find a solution to keep their World Series dreams alive. The Dodgers have always prided themselves on resilience and depth, but this setback is a test of both their resolve and their willingness to make bold moves when everything is on the line. Perhaps that solution is a blockbuster trade for a $56 million star, Sandy Alcántara.

At least, that’s what Zach Pressnell of Newsweek believes. After missing the entire 2024 season due to Tommy John surgery, the Miami Marlins ace is returning. While his current numbers—2-2 with a 6.56 ERA and 17 strikeouts—may not reflect his full potential, the Dodgers believe he could bolster their rotation. A potential trade might include top prospects like James Outman, Dalton Rushing, Justin Wrobleski, or Bobby Miller. Though parting with young talent is challenging, the Dodgers’ front office recognizes the urgency of their situation. Alcántara’s $56 million contract, which is team-friendly, would address immediate needs while offering long-term stability.

Things would have been different if injuries hadn’t severely weakened the Dodgers’ once-formidable pitching staff. Key players like Tony Gonsolin, who is in rehab from Tommy John surgery, and Blake Snell, sidelined with shoulder inflammation, have created notable holes in the lineup. Even the much-anticipated return of Shohei Ohtani to the mound is still in doubt, which only adds to the problems of the club.

If the Boys in Blue can get their hands on Alcántara, it could be a strategic move. While trading for him amid Glasnow’s injury might seem reactionary, the Dodgers’ pitching crisis runs deeper. It’s not just about replacing Glasnow–it’s about reinforcing a depleted rotation to endure a grueling season and postseason push.

Tyler Glasnow’s injury amplifies Dodgers’ rotation crisis

Injuries have significantly affected the Dodgers’ pitching staff, particularly after Glasnow’s injury. This development only exacerbates the team’s ongoing struggles to maintain a strong and efficient rotation.

Throughout the season, the Dodgers have faced a relentless wave of pitching injuries. Clayton Kershaw remains on the 60-day IL while recovering from left toe and knee surgeries. And Snell has been on the 15-day IL since April 6 with left shoulder inflammation. With no clear timetable for his comeback to pitching. These absences have decimated the team’s pitching depth, forcing frequent rotation adjustments. The injury list continues to grow, raising questions about internal solutions.

The Dodgers have indeed explored internal options to address these difficulties. Ben Casparius, who has shown adaptability and efficiency in extensive relief duties, is being evaluated for a potential move to the starting rotation. Manager Dave Roberts acknowledged this possibility, emphasizing Casparius’s recent performance. He said, “He gave us four innings today. He’s unflappable, he flooded the strike zone. And he saved our tails today, and our bullpen’s in a great spot going into this next series.” The Dodgers must now decide whether to entrust Casparius with a starting role.

Looking beyond internal solutions, the Dodgers are actively considering external acquisitions to reinforce their rotation. The team’s ability to adapt and resolve its pitching crisis will be critical to maintaining its competitive edge as the season progresses.