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

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!
Tony Gonsolin is in the process of being built up to return as a starting pitcher. He could be healthy the next time a 5th starter is needed. #Dodgers
— David Vassegh (@THEREAL_DV) May 2, 2021
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.