Dustin May, a promising pitcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers, had high hopes for the 2023 season. However, his comeback from Tommy John surgery was cut short due to recurring right elbow issues.

May made only nine starts during the season, with his last appearance lasting just one inning on May 17 against the Minnesota Twins. After experiencing right elbow pain, May left the game, and subsequent evaluations revealed that the platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection he received did not provide sufficient healing.

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts expressed disappointment at the setback, as the team had hoped for May’s return. However, surgery became the best option for May’s recovery. Dr. Neal ElAttrache, who performed May’s initial Tommy John surgery in 2021, conducted the operation to repair May’s right flexor tendon and revise the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) reconstruction.

Before his season-ending surgery, May showcased his talent, posting a 4-1 record with a 2.63 ERA, 3.23 FIP, and 0.94 WHIP in 48 innings pitched. One of his standout performances came on March 31, when he delivered seven scoreless innings, allowing only three hits against the Arizona Diamondbacks.

Looking ahead to 2024, May’s recovery timeline is estimated to be around 12 months. If all goes well, he could potentially return to the mound for the Dodgers in the second half of the season. However, the team is expected to adopt a cautious approach to ensure his long-term health and success.

As May enters the offseason, he becomes eligible for salary arbitration. According to projections by MLB Trade Rumors, he is estimated to earn a salary of $9.3 million in 2024.

Despite the setbacks, May remains a promising talent for the Dodgers, and fans eagerly await his return to the field, hoping to witness his impressive abilities once again.