Injuries have always gotten in the way of the Los Angeles Dodger rotation being truly great. But fortunately, they've accounted for the numerous injury risks with depth. That planning will pay off early as starter Rich Hill went on the disabled list with a blister on his left middle finger, with Alex Wood taking his place in the rotation.
Hill made his 2017 regular season debut on Wednesday against the San Diego Padres and pitched well with just two hits and one run allowed across five innings. He did pick up the win, but he showed some command issues with three walks, he also only threw 75 pitches.
Fortunately, MLB's reduction of the disabled list from 15 to 10 days, likely provides a positive light on HIll's timetable, in addition to manager Dave Roberts' comments. Hill offered to test out the blister in a bullpen session, but the team told him to wait. So this could very well be a minor issue where Hill misses the minimum time, much to the delight of fantasy owners.
Wood will likely get the start on Monday against the Chicago Cubs, a matchup fantasy owners and DFS players will want to avoid. The game will also be the Cubs home opener and they'll receive their World Series rings, so that could add to their fuel to show well and further lessen the fantasy appeal of Wood in this start.
Julio Urias is not in consideration for Monday's start as Los Angeles sticks to its plan of bringing him along slowly and limiting his innings this season.