Dodgers: Brusdar Graterol Takes a Big Step Towards a Return
The Dodgers are constantly working their way back towards full health. With several guys on the mend, they could be getting very close to 100 percent within the next few weeks. That is of course not including those players lost for the season.
But one guy the Dodgers have missed is Brusdar Graterol. The hard-throwing right-hander has made just 3 appearances this year and hasn’t been very effective. Graterol last appeared in a game on April 26th before undergoing an MRI on his forearm.
The Dodgers were able to clear Brusdar of any issues, but he was not able to pick up a ball for a while. But the most recent update from Dave Roberts on Saturday afternoon made it sound like his return could be just around the corner.
He threw yesterday and it was about a 30 pitch bullpen. Fastballs, sliders and he came out of it really well. He’ll throw another one on Tuesday in Houston with us.
Doc has mentioned the possibility of Brusdar going on a rehab stint when he is ready to go. That would make sense given how long he has been out as well as how little he has thrown. Brusdar was a late-start to the Dodgers spring camp as well, which made him a late arrival for the regular season.
Dodgers Related: Roberts Sets Off Padres Fans With Rivalry Comment
With a healthy Brusdat back in the bullpen, it alleviates pressure from some of the guys that have been thrown in there. The Dodgers have had to turn to guys like Alex Vesia and Mitch White, who are very good but probably not ready.
Having the hard-throwing Graterol out there for the late innings makes this Dodgers bullpen MUCH better. But only when he’s healthy.
Dodgers: Gavin Lux Talks About the Origin of the ‘Dunk on ‘Em’ Head Pat Celebration
Visai has good stuff but last night struggled with his control. his pitches were all over the place. He grooved one to Posey behind in the count which he was the entire inning. Young pitchers have to learn to throw strikes.
Graterol will help the bullpen enormously.
With Bellinger, McKinstry, and Graterol on their way back, the Dodgers will be significantly stronger and better defensively.
His problem is that most hitters will hit 100 mph fastballs. He needs more swing and miss pitches.Until he can master that unfortunately he will be just another arm and not an elite one.
Last Sunday Uceta gave the Marlins a 3-2 win… today he’s trying to blow a 9 run lead on the Giants. Hey Ya Basta….send Uceta to Rancho Cucamonga NOW!
Waiting for him to get back. Too many gas cans in the bull pan.