As we approach September, the Los Angeles Dodgers are the best team in the league (record-wise). It may not be hard to believe, especially after their successful winter, but this season has been far from easy.
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The Dodgers have suffered their fair share of injuries, especially regarding their top arms in the rotation and out of the bullpen. L.A. has suffered loss after loss when it comes to its bullpen, and none have been more significant than L.A.’s young right-handed flame thrower Brusdar Graterol.
It’s been an injury-riddled season for Graterol, but hope may be on the horizon. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts told Bill Plunkett of the Orange County Register that Graterol is scheduled to throw to hitters in a live batting session on Saturday.
“Right-hander Brusdar Graterol is scheduled to throw to hitters in a live batting practice session Saturday. Graterol has been out with a hamstring injury but could start a rehab assignment after that.”
Brusdar Graterol #48 of the Los Angeles Dodgers pitches in relief during the sixth inning against the Philadelphia Phillies at Dodger Stadium on August 06, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. Graterol is scheduled to throw to hitters on Saturday.
Photo by Harry How/Getty Images
Graterol has been cleared to face live hitters after throwing a pair of bullpen sessions. The 26-year-old got up to 30 pitches in a bullpen session Wednesday, and based on that, he doesn’t seem too far off of a return.
As things stand, the only unclear thing is whether Graterol will require a rehab assignment, which was paused at the beginning of August. In early August, Graterol suffered a Grade 1 right hamstring strain and was placed on the 15-day injured list.
He suffered the injury while making his season debut. Prior to that, Graterol missed most of the season due to a right shoulder injury. Graterol has only faced three hitters in the 2024 season, but the hope is that will all change soon as we hit the ever-so-important games in September.
Graterol is in his fifth year with the Dodgers, and he has been an integral part of the team and their bullpen. The right-handed flame thrower was at his best in 2023 when he recorded an impressive 1.20 ERA in over 68 appearances.
Overall, Graterol has recorded a 2.79 ERA with a 10-8 record, 153 ERA+, 3.25 FIP, and a 1.05 WHIP in 174.0 innings and 172 appearances in his time in Los Angeles.
Graterol will provide a big boost to the bullpen and team morale. As of Aug. 31, they had the best record in the league, 81-54.
The Dodgers are on the verge of winning their 11th division title in 12 years.
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