Dodgers’ Daniel Hudson Faces Uphill Battle for Late-Season Comeback

Relief pitcher Daniel Hudson, once heralded as one of the brighter comeback stories of the Dodgers’ season, saw his hopes dashed as his return to the team hit an abrupt halt.

After more than a year on the sidelines due to a torn ACL, Hudson made a triumphant return to the mound, delivering three innings of stellar shutout work spanning three games. In an admirable performance, he even clinched a save during this remarkable comeback. However, the baseball fates took a cruel twist when it was revealed that he had sustained an MCL injury while on the mound.

This unfortunate setback dealt a significant blow to the Dodgers, who had been counting on Hudson to bolster their bullpen in the crucial stretch of the season. Despite the setback, Hudson remained determined, diligently working to make a comeback this year. Nevertheless, with the playoffs looming, his prospects appear uncertain.

Notably, insider Mike DiGiovanna of The LA Times has reported that Hudson remains unwavering in his determination to return to the pitching mound this season.

While Hudson may not be available for the Dodgers’ NLDS series against the Arizona Diamondbacks, there remains a glimmer of hope that he might stage a comeback during the NLCS or even the World Series, should the team advance that far. Nevertheless, such a prospect appears to be a longshot, as the Dodgers may have reservations about entrusting him with his first game action in months, especially when the season is on the line.

Hudson demonstrated earlier this season that he could swiftly contribute upon his return, but the postseason presents an entirely different challenge. The Dodgers cannot afford any letdowns within games, making it questionable whether Hudson is the ideal candidate for such high-pressure situations.

It might be in his best interest to continue rehabilitation and target a return for the next season. If Hudson can succeed in regaining his health, he could become a pivotal contributor to the LA bullpen once again in the coming year.

Although he is advancing in years, next season could potentially mark his final hurrah in the league. The aspiration is that he can stay injury-free, providing the Dodgers with the much-needed support they require moving forward. For Hudson, the desire to conclude his career on his own terms, rather than due to injury, is undoubtedly a powerful motivator.

Have you subscribed to our YouTube Channel yet? Subscribe and hit that notification bell to stay up to date on all the latest Dodgers news, rumors, interviews, live streams, and more!