Dodgers: Tony Gonsolin Happy With First Start Back

Tony Gonsolin’s return from the injured list couldn’t come at a better time for the Dodgers. With October inching closer day by day, having another healthy arm to eat up innings and save the bullpen is crucial.

After making a rehab start with the Single-A Quakes, in which he pitched 2 1/3 innings, the Dodgers felt he was ready to rejoin the big league club. Of course, Dave Roberts mentioned the plan for Gonsolin would be for him to take on the bulk of innings, yet it would still be a bullpen day.

Despite not being able to pitch as deep as he normally would, Gonsolin came out of the start satisfied with the results.

“It felt great. I tried not to look at the gun too much. I definitely did after that first pitch. I kind of wanted to see where I was at. Then as I got more comfortable, I felt like it was coming out a lot better. But it was definitely nice to see a 96. Yes, the velo’s there and I felt a lot more comfortable on the mound.”

Gonsolin was able to complete three innings in his comeback from the IL. He allowed 1 run on 3 hits and 2 walks while punching out 3 along the way. Not too bad for his first outing since July 30th. Unfortunately, the offense faltered once again and the Dodgers were pinned with a 2-1 loss. The painful and avoidable outcome pushed the club to 2 1/2 games back of the Giants in the NL West. 

Up Next:

The Dodgers will look to make up ground while further burying a division rival as the Padres come to town for a 3-game series. First pitch is set today at 7:10 PM PST. 

NEXT: Dave Roberts, Trea Turner Share Thoughts on Disappointing Road Trip