Los Angeles Dodgers relief pitcher Brusdar Graterol will not be on the active roster when the MLB season begins, as he continues his recovery from surgery to repair a torn labrum. The 27-year-old Venezuelan right-hander underwent the procedure in November 2024, following his appearance in three games during the Dodgers’ World Series run against the New York Yankees.
The news, first reported on Wednesday, confirms a cautious approach by the Dodgers’ management regarding Graterol’s return. Manager Dave Roberts indicated the team is prioritizing a careful build-up for the hard-throwing reliever, acknowledging he won’t be available for opening day. This setback impacts a key component of the Dodgers’ bullpen, which relied heavily on Graterol’s performance in recent seasons.
Surgery and Recovery Timeline
Graterol’s 2024 season was marked by intermittent shoulder inflammation and a hamstring strain, limiting him to seven regular-season relief appearances where he posted a 2.45 ERA over 7⅓ innings. Despite these challenges, he played a role in the Dodgers’ championship victory. The labrum surgery was deemed necessary to address the underlying issues and prevent further injury. He agreed to a $2.8 million contract in January to avoid arbitration, securing his position with the team as he focuses on rehabilitation. ESPN reported on the situation Wednesday.
A Valuable Asset for the Dodgers
Acquired from the Minnesota Twins in February 2020 in a trade that sent Kenta Maeda to Minnesota, Graterol has become a vital part of the Dodgers’ pitching staff. His career record stands at 11-9 with a 2.78 ERA and 11 saves across five seasons. He demonstrated exceptional performance in 2023, setting career highs with 67⅓ innings pitched and 68 appearances, although maintaining a 1.20 ERA. Baseball-Reference.com details his career statistics.
Graterol’s Career Path
Before joining the Dodgers, Graterol signed with the Minnesota Twins as an international free agent in August 2014. He progressed through the Twins’ minor league system, facing a setback in 2016 due to Tommy John surgery. He debuted with the Twins in September 2019 before being traded to Los Angeles. Wikipedia provides a comprehensive overview of his career trajectory, from his early days in the Dominican Summer League to his World Series championships.
Looking Ahead
While the Dodgers are proceeding cautiously with Graterol’s recovery, they remain optimistic about his eventual return to the mound. The team has not yet announced a specific timetable for his return, but Roberts emphasized the importance of ensuring he is fully healthy before rejoining the active roster. The Dodgers will rely on other bullpen arms to fill the void in the early part of the season, and fans will be eagerly awaiting updates on Graterol’s progress.
What impact will Graterol’s absence have on the Dodgers’ bullpen performance in the early season? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and be sure to share this article with fellow baseball fans.
