Dodgers’ Emmet Sheehan reveals early season focus for 2026

Los Angeles Dodgers right-handed pitcher Emmet Sheehan spoke about his goals for the 2026 season during the Dodgers’ first spring training on Friday.

“I guess I just have to make sure my body feels good,” Sheehan said to Doug McKain of Dodgers Nation. “Making sure I’m strong and ready to go all season long. I haven’t had a full season in the big leagues yet, so hopefully I can do that this year and stay healthy for as many starts or appearances as I can.”

Sheehan appeared in 13 games for the Dodgers in 2023 after making his debut, but ended up on the injured list for the entire 2024 season after undergoing Tommy John surgery. He returned to the Dodgers midway through the 2025 season and held a starting spot in their six-man rotation until the postseason.

Will Emmet Sheehan be a starter in 2026?

While the Dodgers’ rotation has not yet been finalized, Sheehan will most likely find a spot in the rotation after his solid run of performances in 2025.

Through 15 appearances during the regular season, Sheehan proved he belonged in the major leagues by posting a 2.82 ERA in 73.1 innings while striking out 89 batters.

Sheehan also has this goal in mind, as he indicated he wants to remain in the rotation next season.

“Yeah, I mean, for sure,” Sheehan said when asked if he wanted to be a starter in 2026. “Obviously it’s their decision, so whatever I can do to help us win, I’m willing to do it.”

Who else could the Dodgers have in their rotation?

The Dodgers are spoiled for choice when it comes to starting pitching, with several All-Stars in their ranks.

Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Blake Snell and Tyler Glasnow will almost certainly find a spot in the rotation, and the Dodgers have enough depth to take the final two spots.

In addition to Sheehan, Roki Sasaki will be vying to return to the starting lineup after a brief stint in the bullpen last season, and River Ryan and Gavin Stone will also look to make a comeback after being on the injured list last season.

LA is in a great spot with their pitching and will look to capitalize on their strength this coming season as they look for another World Series championship.

Should Emmet Sheehan have a spot in the Dodgers’ rotation this year?