Tyler Glasnow Dominates Rehab Start as Dodgers Fans Question Edwin Diaz Role

Tyler Glasnow Dodgers return took another important step forward after the right-hander impressed during his third rehab start for Triple-A Oklahoma City on Friday. Glasnow dominated the Albuquerque Isotopes, giving the Los Angeles Dodgers another encouraging sign as they prepare for the postseason.

Glasnow, who has been sidelined since May because of a lower back injury, showed little rust during the outing. He struck out eight batters across 3.2 innings and did not allow a hit over 67 pitches before leaving the game.

Tyler Glasnow shines during third rehab appearance

The Dodgers have been carefully managing Glasnow’s recovery, but his latest outing provided plenty of reasons for optimism. The right-hander allowed no hits and no runs while recording eight strikeouts against Albuquerque.

He did issue two walks, but the overall performance suggested that Glasnow is getting closer to being ready for a return to the major-league roster.

The Dodgers are expected to give him one more rehab start before activating him from the 60-day injured list. The additional outing should allow the organization to evaluate his pitch count, command and physical condition before making a final decision.

Dodgers fans react to Glasnow’s impressive outing

Glasnow’s performance immediately generated excitement among Dodgers supporters on social media. Some fans even began discussing whether his return could change the team’s bullpen hierarchy during the playoffs.

One fan suggested that the Dodgers should move away from Edwin Diaz in the postseason, while another described Glasnow as getting closer to completing the team’s pitching puzzle.

Other reactions focused on the possibility of Glasnow pitching in high-leverage situations, with some supporters even wondering whether he could eventually handle the ninth inning.

Those reactions highlight the growing anticipation surrounding Glasnow’s return, particularly because the Dodgers have already used him in a relief role during their previous World Series run.

Could Tyler Glasnow become a bullpen weapon?

Glasnow’s return could give the Dodgers another intriguing option depending on how the team manages its pitching staff. Although he has primarily been a starting pitcher, his previous postseason experience coming out of the bullpen gives manager Dave Roberts additional flexibility.

The Dodgers currently have significant depth in their starting rotation. Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Roki Sasaki, Tarik Skubal and Blake Snell provide the club with several established options.

That depth could potentially allow the Dodgers to use Glasnow differently once he returns. Rather than immediately placing him back into a full starter’s workload, the team could consider a carefully managed relief role.

However, his health will remain the biggest priority after a lengthy absence.

Edwin Diaz struggles add pressure to Dodgers bullpen

The excitement surrounding Glasnow’s potential return is also connected to concerns about Edwin Diaz. The Dodgers signed Diaz to a $69 million contract, but his first season with the team has been difficult.

According to the supplied report, Diaz has posted an 11.57 ERA through 14 games this season. Those struggles have naturally led to questions about whether the Dodgers should explore alternative options in critical late-game situations.

Glasnow’s previous experience pitching out of the bullpen makes him an obvious name for fans to consider. Still, a postseason relief role would depend on his health, workload and ability to regain his previous form after the back injury.

Dodgers prioritizing Glasnow’s postseason availability

Despite the encouraging rehab performance, the Dodgers are not expected to rush Glasnow back into action. Manager Dave Roberts has indicated that the organization is prioritizing Glasnow’s availability for the postseason.

That approach makes sense given the club’s pitching depth. The Dodgers have enough rotation options to allow Glasnow additional recovery time rather than forcing him into action before he is fully ready.

The recent return of Blake Snell also gives Los Angeles more flexibility. With several starting options available, the Dodgers can focus on ensuring Glasnow reaches the postseason in the best possible physical condition.

What Tyler Glasnow’s return could mean for the Dodgers

If Glasnow continues to progress during his final rehab assignment, his return could significantly strengthen an already deep Dodgers pitching staff.

His ability to work as a starter or potentially contribute from the bullpen gives Roberts multiple strategic options. In a postseason environment, that versatility could become particularly valuable when matchups, pitch counts and high-pressure situations dictate unusual pitching decisions.

For now, the Dodgers appear more interested in getting Glasnow healthy than immediately deciding his exact postseason role. His final rehab start should provide another important indication of where he stands.

Bottom line

Tyler Glasnow took another major step toward returning to the Dodgers after striking out eight batters and allowing no hits during his third Triple-A rehab appearance.

With one more rehab start expected before his activation, Glasnow is getting closer to rejoining Los Angeles. His return could provide another powerful weapon for the Dodgers, particularly if Edwin Diaz’s struggles continue and the team needs additional high-leverage options for the postseason.