The Los Angeles Dodgers expect better results from their bullpen this season after signing Edwin Díaz as their new closer, a potential return to form from Tanner Scott, the return of up-and-comers like Jack Dreyer, and players coming back from injury, such as Brusdar Graterol.
Availability has been a major issue for Graterol over the past two seasons, with just 7.1 innings pitched in that time due to injury. It is an unfortunate reality for him and the Dodgers, considering he was one of their best relievers in 2023.
He enters 2026 returning from right shoulder surgery that forced him to miss the entire 2025 season. There was a sense of optimism about the right-hander’s ability to contribute right away this season, but those chances took a hit when the Dodgers announced earlier this week that they would slow-play his return.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts officially announced on Wednesday that Graterol won’t be ready to start the season, according to Fabian Ardaya of the Athletic:
Brusdar Graterol won’t be ready to start the season, Dave Roberts said. Not much of a surprise at this point. The velocity ticked up last time he threw off a mound, but the Dodgers will continue to take things slow with him.
— Fabian Ardaya (@FabianArdaya) February 18, 2026
Graterol’s absence is significant, but it shouldn’t impact the team’s ability to start the season off strong. The Dodgers’ bullpen depth will help soften the blow in the meantime.
The 27-year-old is in the final year of his contract. In parts of five seasons with the Dodgers, Graterol owns a 10-8 record with a 2.69 ERA, 3.19 FIP and 1.03 WHIP over 181 innings pitched.
He was one of their most effective relievers prior to his injury issues, and he could be a major boost to the bullpen if he’s able to get back healthy.
Dodgers expect July return for Evan Phillips
The Dodgers recently re-signed Evan Phillips after he was non-tendered by the team earlier in the offseason. Like Graterol, he also is returning from an injury but is on a much longer timeline.
Phillips managed to pitch in seven games before landing on the injured list due to right forearm discomfort that ultimately led to season-ending Tommy John surgery.
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