Excitement buzzed around Dodger Stadium as the word of their beloved fire-throwing relief pitcher was set to make his return. That excitement quickly turned to concern as his season seemed to end just as soon as it started.
Brusdar Graterol was activated off the injured list on Tuesday for the first time this year. His first relief appearance of the season ended in pain as he clutched the back of his leg after delivering his final pitch. Despite initial thoughts of his injury being categorized as a Grade 3 hamstring strain and the ultimate end to his season, a further diagnosis was made stating the severity of the strain is only Grade 1. Will this unforeseen injury inhibit Graterol’s return in 2024?
Graterol’s 2024 Debut
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Graterol’s debut took place on Tuesday, August 6, while playing the Philadelphia Phillies. He entered the game in the top of the sixth inning. While facing veteran, J.T. Realmuto, Graterol threw his eighth pitch of the game. After the delivery, he immediately grabbed his right leg in pain. Through tearful eyes, and a face full of defeat, Graterol was carried off the field by the Los Angeles athletic trainer and teammate, Kike Herández.
After evaluation, initial thoughts concluded that Graterol suffered a Grade 3 strain, meaning there was a complete tear of his hamstring muscles. His season would have been over and a long, strenuous road to recovery would begin.
It was announced last night that the strain he suffered was only a grade 1 after a follow-up MRI. The positive news was a point of hopefulness for the Dodger Clubhouse as Graterol may be able to return to the mound this season after all.
Relief Pitcher’s Recovery
“Obviously we’re gonna go through the process of resting it and rehabbing it. We’re just gonna go on him and see how we can build him back up,” said manager, Dave Roberts. “We’re still hopeful he will return at some point in time this year.”
The news served as a sense of relief for Graterol and the Dodgers. After rehabbing a shoulder injury for the entirety of the season, the idea of a prolonged absence was very emotional for him. Los Angeles hopes he will be back in the bullpen soon to help them as the postseason fast approaches.
Graterol’s Impact on Los Angeles
Graterol has been with the Dodgers for four years. He spent one season with the Minnesota Twins before coming to Los Angeles in 2020. He has been one of the Dodgers’ most elite pieces in the bullpen for years, making his return highly anticipated amongst Los Angeles’s season-long pitching struggles.
His absence came from an injury early this year. While pitching during spring training, he injured his shoulder rendering him unusable for the foreseeable future. After months of rehabilitation, he was eager to make his way to the active roster again.
His career ERA is an impressive 2.89. With the nickname, “Bazooka, ”his power and speed on the mound make him a daunting threat to opposing teams. He consistently throws in the upper 90s to low 100s. In the postseason, he has been even better for the Dodgers. His career ERA in playoffs is 1.64. His role on the team and presence in the bullpen are imperative to the Dodgers’ success.
Dodgers Moving Forward
Los Angeles has had their fair share of stars on the IL this season. Though their absence has been greatly felt, they are slowly starting to be activated and reembark on their season once again. Along with Graterol, pitchers like Clayton Kershaw and Joe Kelly have made their returns recently. If Graterol can make another return in 2024, the bullpen will be a force to be reckoned with heading into the postseason.
The Dodgers have placed him on the 15-day IL for now, activating right-handed pitcher, Michael Grove. Los Angeles hopes to continue to jump over their hurdles and extend their lead in the National League West after losing the series to Philadelphia. They will take on the Pittsburgh Pirates tomorrow in a three-game series as they look to move to 67-49 on the year.
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