Blake Snell Gives Update on Status for 2026 MLB Opening Day After Dodgers' World Series Win

Los Angeles Dodgers starter Blake Snell recently provided an update regarding his 2026 Opening Day status.

Snell told The California Post that he plans be ready for Opening Day on March 26, although it isn't seen as a certainty within the Dodgers organization (via Jack Harris of the New York Post).

He explained that his arm was "tired" and "exhausted" after making five postseason starts during Los Angeles' run to its 2025 World Series title, per Harris.

He also made a bullpen appearance in Game 7 of the Dodgers' clash with the Toronto Blue Jays in the Fall Classic.

"I feel like I'm doing the right thing," Snell said regarding his arm, via Harris. "I feel good. I've been throwing. It feels better. In the postseason, I gave everything I had for that. But on the front end of spring, I'll have to be patient and let my body get to 100 percent."

"That's what I'm learning talking with (the team)," he added. "Don't rush. Be patient. Make sure you're 100 percent. And that's what's awesome about the organization. They really are focused on your health and well-being."

It's understandable that Los Angeles wants to take a cautious approach with Snell, as he was limited to just 11 regular-season starts during his 2025 campaign due to shoulder inflammation.

Snell was still sharp on the mound when healthy, posting a 5-4 record to go along with a 2.35 ERA. He amassed 72 strikeouts compared to 26 walks in 61.1 innings of work.

Even if Snell isn't ready for the beginning of the 2026 season, the Dodgers should still boast one of the most imposing starting rotations in the majors. Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Shohei Ohtani, Tyler Glasnow and Rōki Sasaki have all proven they can perform at a high level, while depth options such as Gavin Stone and River Ryan are also available.

As Los Angeles prepares for its quest to capture a third consecutive World Series title, Snell's availability to start the year is still up in the air.