Dodgers: Three options for a six-man rotation

Dustin May

The Dodgers’ top pitching prospect was set to make his way back to the majors at some point this season, just not right when the season started. Those plans might have to change given the current situation.

President Andrew Friedman will need to toe a tight line in filling the back of his rotation with his best starters, while paying close attention to how an unusual schedule could impact his most prized arms.

Dustin May is 22 years old, with only 34.2 innings of major league experience. The Dodgers, who are known for their excellent ability to develop young players, most certainly had a schedule set for how they wanted to see May progress through the minors to a more permanent role in the big leagues.

It could be risky to sacrifice May’s development path in order to fill a near-term need.

That said, May is clearly ready to contribute against the toughest level of competition. Last season, for Triple-A Oklahoma City, he started five games, won three, and struck out 24 batters, while pitching to a 2.30 ERA.

The tall, right-hander, who recently won MLB Network Radio’s best hair competition tournament, ranked as MLB’s 20th best prospect after the 2019 season by Baseball America. It is only a matter of time before he is mowing down opposing hitters from the mound at Chavez Ravine, perhaps his time will come sooner rather than later.