Dodgers News: Dodgers Expected to “Slow Play” Brusdar Graterol’s Spring Ramp-Up

LOS ANGELES, CA—The Los Angeles Dodgers bullpen is expected to be one of the many strengths for the team’s roster heading into the 2026 season, and one of the arms expected to have a massive impact is right-hander Brusdar Graterol.

Injuries have plagued Graterol’s career thus far, with the right-hander missing significant time during the 2024 regular season and all of last year due to right shoulder surgery.

Still, after more than a year away from the team, Graterol was expected to be a full go during spring training for Los Angeles, according to Dodgers manager Dave Roberts earlier today; that appears to be changing.

Roberts stated that the team will be cautious with Graterol, adopting a “slow play” approach as he builds up in spring training to prepare for the regular season, with his status for Opening Day on March 26th, more than a month away, still to be determined.

The Dodgers acquired Graterol in 2020 following his MLB debut with the Minnesota Twins in 2019. Despite occasional injury setbacks, he has shown impressive performance on the mound. Over his career, the right-handed pitcher has posted a 2.78 ERA. In 2023, his most recent full season in the majors, Graterol posted an outstanding 1.20 ERA across 68 games.

The Dodgers have ample depth on their roster, allowing them to be very patient regarding Graterol’s potential return. There’s no need to hurry him back. However, if he avoids any setbacks, Graterol might return sooner rather than later.

Still, Graterol is now the latest arm to go under a slow ramp-up, with left-hander Blake Snell undergoing the same method after missing time with a similar shoulder injury and extensive workload in October.

Have you subscribed to the Bleed Los Podcast YouTube channel? Be sure to ring the notification bell to watch player interviews, participate in shows & promotions, and stay up to date on all Dodgers news and rumors!