The Los Angeles Dodgers’ fifth starter slot just came more into focus with right-hander Emmet Sheehan expected to start the season on the injured list, manager Dave Roberts announced Saturday.

Sheehan had been experiencing shoulder soreness earlier this spring.

Sheehan took a week off after arriving to camp with reported body soreness then was shut down again with shoulder discomfort. He has not appeared in a Cactus League game this spring.

Expected to be in the running for a starting spot, the Dodgers could pivot to right-handers Gavin Stone or Michael Grove, or left-hander Ryan Yarbrough for that role. The Dodgers start the season March 20-21 at South Korea against the San Diego Padres but do not need a fifth starter until April 1.

Sheehan, 24, made his major league debut on June 16 last season when he didn’t give up a hit in six innings against the San Francisco Giants. He went 4-1 with a 4.92 ERA in 13 appearances (11 starts).

–Field Level Media