LOS ANGELES — In a remarkable comeback story, Dodgers pitcher Dustin May returned to the Major League mound on Tuesday night, showcasing a new mindset and a fierce determination to succeed. After an 8-month hiatus for recovery, May made his first start since May 17, 2023, delivering a solid performance that led to the Dodgers’ 3-1 victory against the formidable Atlanta Braves.

On this triumphant return, May allowed just one hit and an unearned run over five innings, striking out six batters and walking three. "Even if it would have gone bad, I still would have been having a good time just being back on a big league mound," May stated poignantly. "It literally meant the world to me just to be back on the mound because eight months ago, I didn’t know if I would be."

May’s journey back to the field has been nothing short of extraordinary. Last season, he faced life-threatening challenges after a freak accident during dinner with his wife led to a torn flexor tendon and a serious esophageal tear caused by a piece of lettuce. May choked and, while attempting to clear his throat, experienced excruciating pain as the lettuce perforated his esophagus. Without immediate medical attention, the outcome could have been catastrophic.

"It’s kind of one of those stories you just make up, but it was actually true," said teammate Mookie Betts, reflecting on the surreal experience. May underwent emergency surgery that night, and doctors credited him for acting promptly.

"After the esophagus incident, it was like a total reset," May recounted. "There’s nothing I could do at that moment, so playing baseball was at the back of my mind. I was just trying to get healthy and see the next morning."

The 6-foot-6 right-hander, affectionately nicknamed Big Red, took a moment to express his gratitude before the game, tilting his head toward the sky and saying, "I was thanking the Lord for the opportunity to be back. There’s been a lot of praying and devotion to Him in the last two years, and I attribute all of my success to Him."

As the game commenced, May's first pitch—a powerful 96 mph sinker—signaled not just a return but a declaration of his resilience. He faced powerful hitters like Michael Harris II, Austin Riley, and Matt Olson, managing to strike them out in rapid succession. The electrified crowd of 50,182 stood in applause, celebrating his comeback.

May struggled briefly in the second inning, watching as Betts committed an error that allowed an unearned run to score. Despite the hiccup, May remained undeterred. "It means the world knowing that my stuff still plays," he said, beaming after taking down big-league hitters.

Throughout his career, May's emotions have often mirrored the intensity of his fiery red hair – hot and unpredictable. However, his near-death experience has helped him discover a more level-headed approach to both life and the game. "Just being able to stay more calm throughout life has been one of my biggest things in the last six months," he admitted.

In 2023, May recorded an impressive 4-1 record in nine starts, emphasizing his potential despite his previous struggles. This return to competitive baseball reflects not just a physical comeback but a testament to the strength of the human spirit.

As he looks ahead, May’s incredible path serves as an inspiration to many. From nearly losing his life to dazzling fans on the field, Dustin May has proven that sometimes, the toughest battles lead to the greatest victories.