Dodgers’ Brusdar Graterol Takes Huge Step Forward in Rehab, Possible Timeline Emerges

Los Angeles Dodgers reliever Brusdar Graterol pitched his first competitive inning since spring training on Friday, a scoreless frame for the Dodgers’ Arizona Complex League affiliate.

The start of a minor league rehabilitation assignment marks a huge step forward for Graterol, who has missed the entire season to this point with inflammation in his right shoulder.

Earlier Friday, Roberts said the right-hander had progressed far enough in his throwing program to start a rehab assignment after the All-Star break. Count Friday’s game as a pleasant surprise. Roberts told reporters in Detroit that a return to the Dodgers’ bullpen by the end of July “is a possibility, which is encouraging” for the pitcher.

Graterol, 25, was counted on as a major piece of the Dodgers’ bullpen after leading the team in appearances (68) a year ago. His 1.20 ERA was the lowest of any Dodgers reliever with at least 40 games pitched in 2023.

In his career, Graterol is 11-9 with a 2.80 ERA across 181 appearances. A return to health could lessen the Dodgers’ need to acquire a high-leverage reliever ahead of the July 30 deadline. Due to injuries and inefficiency, 22 different pitchers (and utility player Kiké Hernandez) have made at least one relief appearance for the Dodgers this season.

Photo Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

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