Dodgers Slow-Playing Brusdar Graterol In Return From Shoulder Surgery

"Graterol was optimistic heading into Spring Training, but the early results have forced the Dodgers to take a step back. The Dodgers now plan to slow-play Gtaterol as they ramp up for the season, Dave Roberts said via Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic: Dave Roberts said the Dodgers are slow playing Brusdar Graterol a bit this spring. Ball hasn't come out the way they'd expected as he continues to work his way back from shoulder surgery. - Fabian Ardaya (@FabianArdaya) February 14, 2026"

"Returning from shoulder injuries is notoriously difficult for both pitchers and hitters, and even more so when it's on the throwing shoulder. Graterol specifically had his labrum repaired in his right shoulder after the 2024 World Series. Graterol had been playing long toss and planned to throw his first bullpen session just before the start of Spring Training. He also added that his shoulder began feeling normal again in January."

"It's unlikely Graterol will be ready for Opening Day given the new development, but that ultimately depends on how his shoulder responds as he continues to increase his progression. The right-hander is entering his final year of team control before potentially becoming a free agent after the 2026 season. He and the Dodgers reportedly avoided arbitration by agreeing to a one-year, $2.8 million contract earlier this offseason."

Los Angeles Dodgers bullpen depth faces uncertainty as Brusdar Graterol continues rehabbing from right shoulder labrum surgery that sidelined him for all of 2025. Graterol threw only 7.1 innings in 2024 after a strong 2023 season. The Dodgers have slowed his spring program after early results fell short of expectations, and Dave Roberts indicated the team is being cautious. Graterol had been doing long toss and planned an initial bullpen session before Spring Training, and he reported his shoulder felt normal in January. Opening Day availability now appears unlikely and will depend on how his shoulder responds to increased workload. Graterol is in the final year of team control and agreed to a one-year, $2.8 million contract to avoid arbitration.

Read at Dodger Blue