The Injury Bug Strikes Again: Tony Gonsolin Sidelined, Dustin May Steps Up for the Dodgers

Spring Training Setbacks for the Dodgers

The Los Angeles Dodgers, fresh from their 2024 World Series triumph, are facing a new challenge as spring training unfolds. The injury bug has struck once again, this time claiming All-Star pitcher Tony Gonsolin. Manager Dave Roberts revealed that Gonsolin suffered a back injury while lifting weights, which will prevent him from securing the No. 5 starter spot in the rotation to begin the season. This unexpected setback has opened the door for Dustin May, who has been named the new No. 5 starter after a fierce competition that also involved Bobby Miller.

Gonsolin, a 2022 All-Star, has had a rocky road to recovery since undergoing Tommy John surgery in August 2023. Despite making three rehab starts in late 2024, he was not activated during the postseason. Entering 2025, he was poised to reclaim his role, but this latest injury has thrown a wrench in those plans. Now, the 30-year-old pitcher may start the season on the injured list, a disappointing turn of events for both him and the team. Gonsolin is set to earn $5.4 million in 2025, which is his second-to-last year under team control.

Dustin May’s Road to Redemption

The news of Dustin May’s ascension to the No. 5 starter role marks a remarkable comeback for the 27-year-old right-hander. May has not pitched since 2023 due to a series of setbacks, including a Tommy John revision surgery in July of that year to address a UCL sprain and flexor tendon injury. His journey took a dramatic turn in 2024 when he suffered a life-threatening incident involving a piece of lettuce that became lodged in his esophagus, leading to an emergency surgery that saved his life.

Reflecting on the experience, May described it as "life-altering" and emphasized the gravity of the situation. Despite these challenges, May has shown resilience and determination, working tirelessly to regain his form. His hard work has paid off, as he has emerged as the winner of the competition for the No. 5 starter spot. May made it clear that starting is his preference, and now he will have the opportunity to prove himself once again in the rotation of the defending World Series champions.

The Competition for the Fifth Starter Spot

The battle for the No. 5 starter role was fierce, with Tony Gonsolin, Dustin May, and Bobby Miller all in contention. Gonsolin entered spring training as the frontrunner, but his back injury derailed his chances. Miller, another promising young pitcher, was also in the mix until a setback of his own—an unfortunate incident where he was hit in the forehead by a comebacker during the Cactus League opener—knocked him out of the running.

Manager Dave Roberts praised May’s performance, stating that his ability to pitch well and build up his endurance made him the logical choice for the role. While Gonsolin’s injury was a significant factor, May’s resilience and determination played a crucial part in his selection. The decision highlights the depth of talent within the Dodgers’ organization and the competitive spirit that drives players like May to overcome adversity.

The Implications for Tony Gonsolin’s Career

Tony Gonsolin’s latest injury is a concerning development for both the player and the team. The right-hander has been working to regain his form since his Tommy John surgery in 2023, but this new setback raises questions about his ability to stay healthy and contribute consistently. Gonsolin’s importance to the Dodgers cannot be overstated, as he has been a key member of the rotation when healthy, earning All-Star honors in 2022.

The fact that Gonsolin is in his second-to-last year of team control adds another layer of complexity to the situation. The Dodgers will need to assess how to handle his contract moving forward, considering both his potential and the risks associated with his injury history. For now, the focus will be on helping Gonsolin recover and hopefully return to the mound in a meaningful way this season.

A Test of Resilience for the Dodgers

The Dodgers, known for their depth and ability to adapt, are once again facing a challenge that will test their resilience. The loss of Tony Gonsolin and the uncertainty surrounding his return underscore the importance of having a strong pitching depth. Dustin May’s ascension to the No. 5 starter role is a testament to the organization’s ability to develop talent and provide opportunities for players to shine.

However, the injury to Gonsolin also serves as a reminder of the fragile nature of the game and the unpredictable nature of player health. As the Dodgers prepare to defend their World Series title, they will need to rely on their depth and the determination of players like Dustin May to navigate the challenges that lie ahead. The road to another championship will not be easy, but the Dodgers have shown time and time again that they have the resilience and talent to overcome adversity.

Looking Ahead

As the Dodgers continue to navigate the ups and downs of spring training, the focus will now shift to how the team can manage the absence of Tony Gonsolin and integrate Dustin May into the rotation. May’s journey from a life-threatening injury to becoming a key contributor is an inspiring story that highlights the mental and physical strength required to compete at the highest level.

For Gonsolin, the road to recovery is just beginning, and the hope is that he can return to the mound and play a role in the Dodgers’ quest for another championship. While the injury bug has struck once again, the Dodgers have the talent and depth to weather the storm and remain competitive. The 2025 season is filled with promise, and the performances of May, Gonsolin, and the rest of the pitching staff will be pivotal in determining the team’s success.