Snell isn't racing Skubal for a quick return; his first post-surgery catch focuses on the playoffs.

Two-time Cy Young winner Blake Snell of the Los Angeles Dodgers took his first step in recovery by playing catch before the high-stakes Freeway Series game against the Los Angeles Angels, only two and a half weeks after arthroscopic surgery to clean out his left elbow joint.

Because Snell was already moved to the Dodgers' 60-day injured list, he cannot rejoin the big-league club before mid-July. Although a lengthy rehab path still lies ahead before he can actually pitch in a game, taking this initial step today is undoubtedly a positive sign.

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts commented: "Playing catch right after surgery is fundamentally different from offseason adjustments, but the subsequent buildup in intensity is similar to preparing for a new season. Right now, I can't provide a specific timetable for his return beyond the rehab process—it's going to take a while. We'll make sure to handle him with care, but I know he'll do everything he can to speed things up."

Notably, the minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery Snell received is exactly the same procedure that Detroit Tigers' ace Tarik Skubal underwent. Just over a month after his operation, Skubal is expected to start a rehab assignment this weekend, before free agency officially opens.

However, media outlets have pointed out a key difference: Skubal and the Tigers face urgent contract pressures. Skubal becomes a free agent after the season, and if the Tigers fall completely out of playoff contention, he will be the hottest trade chip on the market before the July deadline. In contrast, Snell and the Dodgers have no such pressure to move him. Los Angeles's sole aim is to ensure Snell returns at 100% strength during the second half of the season and the high-stakes postseason. Although an early return would help the rotation, the Dodgers currently have sufficient starting pitching depth, a solid record, and a stable rotation. They will not take any risk that could compromise their ultimate goal of winning the World Series in October.

Snell's season has been plagued by misfortune: he started the year on the injured list due to left shoulder fatigue, and after making just one start for the Dodgers on May 9, he was sidelined again by a recurrence of his elbow issue.