The Los Angeles Dodgers are once again forced to recalibrate their bullpen strategy as they face the prolonged absence of Brusdar Graterol, one of their key pitching assets. The right-handed reliever is set to miss significant time in the 2025 MLB season due to a right shoulder surgery aimed at repairing his labrum. This setback comes in the wake of a challenging 2024 season, during which Graterol was significantly limited by injuries.
Graterol's Injury Woes
Last season, Graterol managed only seven regular-season appearances, beset by shoulder inflammation and a hamstring injury that kept him sidelined for much of the year. Despite these hurdles, he made it back onto the mound for the postseason, contributing to the Dodgers' World Series campaign. Over three games against the New York Yankees in the 2024 World Series, Graterol allowed just one run on two hits across 2 1/3 innings, demonstrating glimpses of his potential even as concerns over his arm health loomed large.
Echoes of Past Challenges
Graterol's journey with the Dodgers began in February 2020, following an acquisition from the Minnesota Twins. Initially part of a proposed high-profile trade to the Boston Red Sox for Mookie Betts, concerns over Graterol's arm health redirected him to Los Angeles. Since joining the Dodgers, he has averaged 49 appearances per season, boasting a strong 2.63 ERA and a 3.37 strikeout-to-walk ratio. Yet, his injury history has often left the Dodgers contending with lineup adjustments.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts summed up the team's experience with Graterol, saying, "Ever since he's been back, it's been kind of touch and go -- good, then not good." These stints of inconsistency have forced the Dodgers to adapt continually, and they will once again need to fill the void left by Graterol's absence in the bullpen.
Impact on the Team
The Dodgers are no strangers to overcoming such challenges. In recent seasons, they've developed a knack for adjusting to the absence of key players, a skill that will be put to the test again as they aim to defend their 2024 World Series title in the coming season. The foundation of this resilience has been a deep roster and strategic management, factors that will be crucial once more with Graterol’s absence looming large over their 2025 prospects.
Referring to Graterol's potential impact upon return, Roberts added, "What that looks like for the rest of the season? I just don't know. I think it's going to be a week to week situation." Such uncertainty requires a dynamic approach, blending careful monitoring of Graterol's recovery with cultivating other bullpen talent ready to step up.
Outlook for 2025
Despite the challenges, the Dodgers remain a formidable force. Their successful navigation of previous adversities without Graterol underlines their capacity to handle such setbacks adeptly. As the upcoming season progresses, the manner in which they manage this latest challenge could very well define their trajectory, shaping a narrative that may lead them to another successful title defense.
As the Dodgers inch closer to the 2025 season, the focus will be on how they compensate for Graterol's absence. Whether through strategic trades, nurturing existing talent, or perhaps leveraging new acquisitions, the Dodgers’ adaptability and depth will be crucial. With the aim of reclaiming the World Series in sight, their journey forward promises to be a testament to the team’s resilience and strategic acumen.