Dustin May's triumphant return to the mound for the Los Angeles Dodgers, following a harrowing journey through injury and health complications, was a sight to behold during an exhibition game against the San Diego Padres. After 21 months away from competitive baseball, May struck out Oscar Gonzalez with a 95-mph fastball, igniting celebrations in the dugout. His road back included two major surgeries, including a life-threatening incident where an esophagus tear put him in emergency care. Now, feeling revitalized, May is competing for a spot in the Dodgers' starting rotation, highlighting the importance of throwing strikes rather than focusing solely on velocity.

Other Dodgers relievers are also making strides in their recoveries. Evan Phillips has begun throwing off a mound again, indicating a positive step toward returning from a shoulder injury, while Michael Kopech is working through elbow soreness. Both are expected to be key contributors once fully healthy.