Dodgers News: Julio Urias Encouraged by Progress

Several months ago, the Dodgers received horrible news that their young, future star would be down for 12-14 months with reconstructive shoulder surgery. However hopes are still high, and Urias is encouraged and poised for a strong return.

Dodgers pitcher Julio Urias is improving physically and mentally after surgery https://t.co/TvIJP0sYBm pic.twitter.com/RNFvSA7R47

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— Los Angeles Times (@latimes) August 10, 2017

Julio, who is just 21, has not been able to consistently stay in the big leagues. He made his first appearance at age 19 and caused a fury of excitement only to be told that his 2017 season was over. This caused the Dodgers to make moves to bolster their pitching depth and provide strong innings. Guy’s like Darvish made great fits for them. Julio understands the road ahead and the work he will have to put in and he makes it very clear that he isn’t scared to put in the work. He won’t be ready by spring training, or opening day, and there is no guarantee that he’ll pitch at all in 2018. One thing is for certain, the Dodgers’ haven’t given up hope in their once top prospect.

Asked Julio Urias when he expects to return to #Dodgers: "When God wants me to and when I'm ready." (thru interpreter)

— Bill Plunkett (@billplunkettocr) August 10, 2017

Since Urias’s injury, another pitcher has caught the eye of the Dodgers. That is Walker Buehler. Walker has had a very solid season in the minors this year, with an ERA below 3.50 while collecting a crazy 109 strikeouts over 78.2 innings. Walker has climbed the ranks of prospects and now finds himself atop the Dodgers prospect watch. Rumors are floating around that Walker will be converted to a relief pitcher for the remainder of the season in hopes that he can make a playoff impact for us.

Walker Buehler pitched five scoreless innings as the OKC Dodgers defeated Tacoma, 3-1, in Bricktown! Recap: https://t.co/3G7dUtyRkK pic.twitter.com/rs2QG6bBLn

— Oklahoma City Dodgers (@okc_dodgers) August 1, 2017

Tonight Yu Darvish will hit the mound for his second Dodger start. It is the rubber match between the Dodgers and division rival Diamond Backs.

Tonight’s Dodger lineup at D-backs:
Taylor LF
Seager SS
Turner 3B
Bellinger 1B
Forsythe 2B
Hernández RF
Barnes C
Pederson CF
Darvish P pic.twitter.com/2vkl9Kz1Zi

— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) August 10, 2017