Los Angeles Dodgers face pitching crisis as Glasnow sidelined and Snell heads to surgery

Los Angeles Dodgers right‑hander Tyler Glasnow left a start against the Houston Astros early in the second inning due to low‑back pain. Team officials said he “hasn’t gotten over the hump” in his throwing progression and that his back is not hurting him yet, but he remains unavailable for regular duty.

Closer Blake Snell is slated for surgery, guaranteeing he will miss several months. The loss of two key starters adds pressure to a rotation already thin from injuries and overuse, prompting general manager Andrew Friedman to explore trade options, including a possible acquisition of Detroit ace Tarik Skubal.

The Dodgers have made roster moves to compensate: infielder Santiago Espinal was recalled, while pitcher Hyeseong Kim was optioned to Triple‑A Oklahoma City to regain confidence. Despite the setbacks, Los Angeles sits near the top of the NL West with a record around 37‑20, but the pitching shortage could threaten its lead as the trade deadline approaches.