Dustin May’s Return Sparks Dodgers’ Rotation, But Dave Roberts’ Honest Admission Reveals Cautious Optimism Amid Pitcher’s Comeback Journey

In a franchise known for its pitching pedigree, few arms have ever generated as much intrigue and raw excitement as Dustin May. With a delivery as fiery as his trademark red hair, May burst onto the scene with eye-popping velocity, a wicked two-seamer, and the kind of upside that made opposing hitters look foolish.

But after undergoing Tommy John surgery in May 2021 and facing a long, uncertain rehab, the question loomed: would May ever return to form — and could he still become the frontline starter the Dodgers envisioned?

In 2025, the answer is beginning to take shape.

Back in the Dodgers’ rotation after nearly two years of cautious rehab, delayed returns, and setbacks, May has provided a spark — and plenty of reason for optimism. His recent performances have showcased the electric arsenal that once made him a top prospect, and he’s playing a vital role in a Dodgers rotation that’s dealt with injuries and inconsistency.

But as manager Dave Roberts made clear in a candid postgame interview, the team is far from declaring May’s return a finished product.

“We’re really encouraged by what we’re seeing,” Roberts said after May’s six-inning, one-run outing against the Padres. “But it’s not about one game, or even a few weeks. It’s about sustainability. We’re not there yet.”

It was an honest and measured admission — one that reflects both excitement and restraint in May’s long-awaited comeback story.

A Long Road Back

May’s journey has been anything but linear. After dazzling in his first 20 MLB appearances across 2019 and 2020, the right-hander looked poised to take over as a top-of-the-rotation weapon. But in May 2021, after just five starts, he exited a game holding his elbow and soon received the diagnosis no pitcher wants to hear: a torn ulnar collateral ligament.

Tommy John surgery followed, wiping out the rest of 2021 and much of 2022. May returned briefly late that year, showing flashes but also inconsistency. Then came another setback — a flexor pronator strain in 2023 that required surgery and kept him out until mid-2024.

“He’s been through hell,” said Dodgers pitching coach Mark Prior. “Some guys never come back from one major surgery. He’s had to fight through multiple.”

May took a deliberate, almost methodical approach to his rehab. He worked with the Dodgers’ biomechanics staff, revamped his strength training regimen, and made mechanical tweaks to reduce stress on his elbow. Along the way, he also grew mentally.

“I had to learn patience,” May said. “Early in my career, everything came fast. After surgery, nothing did. I had to learn how to pitch smarter, not just harder.”

Dominant in Spurts, Cautiously Managed

Through his first eight starts in 2025, May has a 2.91 ERA with 46 strikeouts in 43.1 innings. He’s held opponents to a .214 batting average, and his signature sinker — once again touching 98 mph — has returned to form. His cutter has improved, and he’s developed better feel for a changeup, giving him more versatility against left-handed hitters.

In his most recent outing against the San Diego Padres, May threw 91 pitches across six strong innings, striking out eight and walking none. His command was crisp, and his velocity held steady deep into the game.

“It’s the best I’ve felt in years,” May said afterward. “I’m starting to trust my stuff again.”

But Roberts was quick to pump the brakes on any sweeping declarations.

“We have to be smart with him,” Roberts said. “His health is the most important thing. We’re managing innings. We’re managing stress levels. We want him to be at his best in September, not just June or July.”

So far, May has yet to throw more than 95 pitches in a game. He’s operating on a modified schedule, occasionally skipping starts or having extra rest built in. The Dodgers are playing the long game, knowing how fragile recovery can be.

“He’s a Ferrari,” said Roberts. “You don’t drive it full throttle every day. You take care of it.”

The Role Within the Rotation

May’s resurgence couldn’t have come at a better time for the Dodgers. Walker Buehler is still rounding into form after his own extended absence. Clayton Kershaw remains sidelined, and young arms like Bobby Miller and Gavin Stone have had mixed results.

In a rotation full of questions, May has emerged as one of the more reliable answers — at least for now.

“He gives us a shot every fifth day,” said catcher Will Smith. “When he’s on, he’s as dominant as anyone in baseball. That sinker at 98 is just unfair.”

More than just stuff, May has added poise. He’s pitching with better tempo and showing improved mound presence. His walk rate has dropped, and he’s pitching deeper into games — a sign of efficiency, not just effectiveness.

“He used to try and strike everyone out,” Smith added. “Now he’s pitching to contact when it makes sense. He’s trusting his defense. He’s maturing.”

Dave Roberts’ Honest Appraisal

Still, Roberts’ comments highlight the team’s internal balancing act. They know May’s talent can be game-changing, especially in October. But they also know the injury history and understand that pushing him too hard too soon could unravel everything.

“We’re trying to thread the needle,” Roberts said. “Let him build confidence, get into a rhythm, and be that dominant guy — but not overextend him. It’s a tough balance.”

That honesty was refreshing in a sport where coaches often lean on clichés. Roberts wasn’t downplaying May’s success — he was putting it into context. And in doing so, he offered a window into how the Dodgers operate: they plan with purpose, not just hope.

“I love what Dustin’s doing,” Roberts said. “But we’re not going to measure him by April or May stats. It’s about where he is in August and September.”

May’s Perspective

For his part, May is focused on what he can control — his routine, his mindset, and his competitiveness. He credits the Dodgers’ staff for helping him grow, both as a pitcher and as a person.

“I’m not thinking about being an ace or a savior,” May said. “I’m thinking about executing pitches, staying healthy, and helping this team win.”

He knows the scrutiny is there. Every pitch is analyzed, every outing dissected. But he’s embracing the pressure — something he couldn’t have done a few years ago.

“This game humbles you,” May said. “When you’re hurt and can’t play, you realize how much you love it. I’m grateful to be back.”

What Comes Next

As the Dodgers push toward another postseason run, May’s role will become even more vital. Whether as a front-end starter or a mid-rotation stabilizer, his presence allows the team flexibility — and hope.

The question is whether he can maintain his form through a full season, something he hasn’t done since 2020. The Dodgers will continue to monitor his workload, keep him on a controlled leash, and hope the arm holds up.

And if it does?

“He has the potential to be a top-10 pitcher in baseball,” said Prior. “The tools are there. Now it’s about time and trust.”

Dustin May’s comeback story is still unfolding. But what he’s shown so far in 2025 has reignited belief — not just in his stuff, but in his resilience.

Dave Roberts’ honesty isn’t a dismissal of May’s progress. It’s a sign of how much the Dodgers value his long-term potential. They aren’t looking for a few good months. They’re looking for sustained greatness.

And if May stays healthy, that greatness might finally be within reach.

“We’re seeing the best version of Dustin we’ve seen in years,” Roberts said. “And if this is just the beginning? Watch out.”