Dodgers: 3 replacements for Dustin May after Tommy John surgery news

ARLINGTON, TEXAS - APRIL 29: Kyle Gibson #44 of the Texas Rangers throws against the Boston Red Sox in the first inning at Globe Life Field on April 29, 2021 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
ARLINGTON, TEXAS - APRIL 29: Kyle Gibson #44 of the Texas Rangers throws against the Boston Red Sox in the first inning at Globe Life Field on April 29, 2021 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images) /
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Tony Gonsolin #46 of the Los Angeles Dodgers (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images) /

2. Tony Gonsolin

Tony Gonsolin was Baseball America’s Rookie of the Year in 2020 after he recorded a 2.31 ERA and 0.84 WHIP in his nine games (eight starts) with the Dodgers. Though he prompted hit the IL to start this season due to a shoulder issue, he’s currently on the mend.

He was used as an opener during the postseason, but now he’s being ramped up to return as a starter. Change of plans!

When May and Urias put a stranglehold on the final two rotation spots, everyone knew Gonsolin’s demotion was inevitable. He’s definitely a good pitcher, but his “stuff” isn’t comparable to those guys.

But now he could be called upon to be the Swiss Army arm of this pitching staff. Maybe he can last the whole year as a starter. Putting the right-hander in the No. 5 spot is surely a win — his short stint has already proven he’s better than most back-end guys out there.

And he’s already familiar in this situation. Though he only has 20 career games under his belt, he’s proven he can provide length, or at the very least, great effectiveness for 4-5 innings. And he’s already on the team, which makes the transaction process a whole lot easier.

You have to assume Gonsolin was always going to be considered for a role as the No. 4 or 5 guy if Urias and May hadn’t excelled the manner in which they did. Perhaps now is his chance.