According to Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts, Tyler Glasnow, who exited his most recent start this past Wednesday due to back spasms, was not supposed to go on the IL. 

Following an MRI on Friday, that was apparently still the case. Then, Glasnow did go on the 15-day IL later that day, clearing the way for two-time Cy Young winner Blake Snell to rejoin the Dodgers’ rotation ahead of his season debut on Saturday.

Confusion aside, Roberts provided reason for encouragement regarding Glasnow’s situation, which the L.A. skipper assumed is "going to be minimal." 

"We talked to Tyler, and we just felt it was the right thing to do. It was smart. Probably could have tried to pitch through it." 

It certainly seems the Dodgers are not too worried about Glasnow's back issue or his ability to rebound from another trip to the IL. The oft-injured righty has never made more than 22 starts in his MLB career, topping out at 134.0 innings in 2024. 

Looking ahead for Glasnow

If Roberts' optimism proves warranted, Glasnow could be back on the mound to resume his strong season as soon as Friday, May 22. 

Through seven starts so far this season, Glasnow has gone 3-0 with an excellent 2.72 ERA. The one-time All-Star has racked up 49 strikeouts compared to only 13 walks across 39.2 innings. He has held opponents to a microscopic .148 AVG, leading the league in that category. 

Glasnow's absence would impact any pitching staff, but most clubs cannot just replace him with another ace-caliber starter. The Dodgers' rotational depth is simply unmatched. Besides, Glasnow won't be gone long. The Dodgers play for October, not May.