The Los Angeles Dodgers need another starter against the Washington Nationals this weekend, and Emmet Sheehan appears positioned to receive another opportunity after spending the past month working through his struggles in Triple-A.

Los Angeles was already likely to recall a pitcher from Triple-A Oklahoma City for a spot start before Eric Lauer was placed on the 15-day Injured List Wednesday, effectively solidifying that need.

Sheehan was demoted on Aug. 3 after struggling throughout the 2026 season.

According to Dodger Blue, manager Dave Roberts said at the time that he wanted the 26-year-old to focus on simply pitching instead of becoming consumed with his velocity or mechanics on the mound.

The results since his demotion have been encouraging.

Sheehan has recorded a 1.50 ERA and 0.94 WHIP in 18 innings over four starts in Triple-A, collecting 24 strikeouts against seven walks while holding opposing hitters to a .161 batting average.

His improvement earned him Pacific Coast League Pitcher of the Week honors for Aug. 17-23.

Sheehan dominated the Sugar Land Space Cowboys, the Houston Astros’ affiliate, surrendering one hit over six scoreless innings while recording nine strikeouts.

That appearance came after 10 days of rest because Sheehan briefly rejoined the Dodgers for their series against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field between Aug. 17-19.

He was available in case Los Angeles needed length from the bullpen but did not pitch in Denver.

The right-hander returned to the Comets when the Dodgers recalled Paul Gervase.

Sheehan is 4-8 with a 5.29 ERA and 1.29 WHIP in 95.1 innings across 20 starts with the Dodgers this season.

While the immediate opening is for a spot starter, Sheehan could ultimately provide greater value in the bullpen, just like Justin Wrobleski.

He has primarily worked as a starter during his three MLB seasons but notably pitched in relief during last year’s postseason.

That experience gives the Dodgers another potential option for covering multiple innings.

Sheehan could also make additional spot starts if necessary, particularly with Shohei Ohtani still not cleared to pitch and Roki Sasaki expected to eventually transition to the bullpen.

Los Angeles has not ruled out Ohtani returning to the mound before the 2026 season ends despite lingering left knee and right bicep discomfort.

Sheehan’s versatility could become particularly useful under those circumstances.

He has the repertoire and endurance developed as a starter but has already shown he can adjust to relief work when needed.

That flexibility allows Roberts to use him differently depending on the condition of the rotation.

His Triple-A improvement also suggests that simplifying his approach has helped.

Rather than becoming overly focused on velocity or mechanical details, Sheehan can be most effective when he trusts his pitches, attacks hitters and maintains a consistent rhythm.

That mentality will be important if another opportunity arrives.

Whether starting or relieving, Sheehan has a chance to turn his demotion into an important late-season role.

His ability to handle multiple roles could make him especially valuable as Los Angeles prepares for October.