“Your favorite pitcher 50 years ago was probably using something” - When Tyler Glasnow admitted to why he likes using sticky substances
Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Tyler Glasnow has had to adjust how he pitches over the last few seasons. In recent years, the league has cracked down on pitchers using substances on the mound that are not approved.
While there is a rosin bag on the mound during all the action, it is not enough for some pitchers. Many have used a combination of sunscreen and rosin to get a much better grip, which the league views as an illegal substance.
Glasnow was hit hard by this during the 2021 season, the same season he suffered a partially torn UCL. He credited the league-wide crackdown to his injury in which he had to have Tommy John surgery, per Business Insider's Scott Davis.
"I 100% believe that contributed to me getting hurt. No doubt. Without a doubt," said Glasnow.
The surgery made Glasnow miss the rest of the 2021 season and much of the 2022 season.
"It's ridiculous that it seems like this whole public perceptiopn of like 'Oh, it's just a select few people.' Your favorite pitcher 50 years ago was probably using something too," said Glasnow.
Glasnow also wanted to put into perspective that this was not something that just started a few years ago. Pitchers have been doing their best to get the upper hand on hitters throughout the history of this sport.
Tyler Glasnow cannot escape arm issues
Unfortunately for the Los Angeles Dodgers, they had to place Tyler Glasnow on the 15-day IL last week. He is dealing with elbow tendinitis, which is not a good sign.
Elbow tendinitis can be difficult to work through, and that seems to be the case here. Per LA Times' Jack Harris, Glasnow has yet to play catch and will likely stay on the IL past the initial 15-day placement.
"Listen to his body," said Dave Roberts.
There is no telling when Glasnow could return to the lineup. He has already thrown a career-high 134 innings, so this injury is surely concerning.
The Dodgers have been battling injuries to their rotation all season long. Others in the rotation must step up and carry the load while Glasnow tends to his elbow.
LA currently holds a four-game lead over the Arizona Diamondbacks and San Diego Padres in the NL West. It would only take a small stumble to see either team surpass them.