Gavin Lux drops bombshell injury update during Dodgers-Pirates

The Los Angeles Dodgers returned home on Monday to start a six-game homestand that will take the Boys in Blue directly into the All-Star Break. LA kicked off the homestand with Gavin Lux bobblehead night, which prompted the young shortstop to return ot Chavez Ravine in uniform to catch the ceremonial first pitch.

Dodgers players have a history of doing big things on their bobblehead night and that was obviously impossible for Lux, who is still recovering from the torn ACL he suffered in spring training.

However, while Lux did not do anything on the field he did provide Dodgers fans with a glimmer of hope with a massive injury update. During the SportsNet LA broadcast of the Dodgers' 5-2 win, Lux revealed that he is hoping to return this season and help the team for its World Series run.

Gavin Lux leaves door open for Dodgers return in 2023

It was never in question that Lux would miss the entire season after suffering the injury during spring training. The absolute shortest timetable to return from an ACL injury is around six months, with recovery times often taking longer than that for professional athletes who don't just need to walk but need to explode at a moment's notice.

That being said, six months from Lux's injury in spring training is the end of August and if he is ahead of schedule in his recovery then there is at least a chance. Him saying that he is hopeful to return does not guarantee anything but it at least makes it possible for the first time all year.

The best part is that Lux does not need to return by the start of September in order to be on the postseason roster. As long as a player is on the 40-man or 60-day IL by the end of August, they are eligible to play in the postseason. He does not need to rush it and can return with two weeks left in the season if that is what it takes.

Even if Lux doesn't start as he is getting back to MLB speed, having his bat on the bench and his speed to use on the basepaths would be huge for this Dodgers team. Lux's .346 on-base percentage from last season would be great for a Dodgers team that only has four players with a higher OBP this season.

The Dodgers are extremely banged-up right now but with Dustin May and Walker Buehler also likely returning for a postseason push, we could see a far more talented team enter October than the one that is entering the Midsummer Classic.