Dodgers face rising pitching injuries in MLB epidemic

In recent years, the Los Angeles Dodgers have faced a significant challenge with their pitching staff, experiencing the highest number of injured-list stints for pitchers in Major League Baseball since 2021. This alarming trend has seen 98 instances of pitchers being placed on the injured list, excluding COVID-related cases, and has resulted in the loss of several top prospects due to severe injuries requiring major surgeries. The organization is now grappling with the implications of these injuries and the potential factors contributing to this epidemic. Experts suggest that the increasing emphasis on pitching velocity may be a contributing factor to the rise in injuries. Many pitchers are now trained to throw as hard as possible, driven by analytics that suggest higher velocity correlates with greater success. However, this approach has led to a concerning number of young pitchers suffering from injuries, raising questions about the long-term sustainability of such training methods. The Dodgers, recognized for their advanced player development strategies, are not alone in this predicament. Other teams have also adopted similar high-tech training methods and have seen similar repercussions. The organization acknowledges the need for a thorough investigation into the causes of these injuries, as they believe the issues are not unique to their team. As the baseball community continues to analyze the data and technology available, there is hope that solutions can be found to mitigate these injuries. The Dodgers are committed to exploring these avenues, aiming to protect their pitchers and ensure a healthier future for their roster.