The Los Angeles Dodgers bullpen has transformed itself in the second half of the season, becoming one of the better units around Major League Baseball. That’s despite being without Daniel Hudson, who remains on the 60-day injured list as he recovers from an MCL sprain in his right knee.
Hudson sustained the injury after recording his first save since June 2022, a deflating blow to a veteran who had just returned from a torn ACL in his left knee that caused him to miss the rest of the 2022 season.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said early on that Hudson wasn’t likely to return this year, but the team remained hopeful.
When recently discussing his recovery, Hudson spoke with some frustration and concern while still continuing with a throwing progression, per Bill Plunkett of the Southern California News Group:
“It feels … I don’t know,” he said.
“I’m just trying to keep my arm going just in case things turn a corner. Trying to get as much done as I can. Keep hammering away at it. … But right now it’s just kind of staying the same.”
Although Hudson is hopeful to pitch again in 2023, he acknowledged time to complete the rehab process is short:
Hudson hasn’t given up on the dream of returning to pitch this season, saying he remains “hopeful and optimistic … but I’m trying to be realistic at the same time.”
Realistically, he won’t be pitching again this season.
“We’re running out of days,” he said. “We’ll see. I’m doing everything I can.”
Fortunately for Hudson, his left knee in which the ACL was repaired last season is in good standing. He threw a bullpen session at Dodger Stadium earlier this week.
When previously discussing Hudson’s MCL injury, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts called it “heartbreaking” to watch a veteran player battle back from one serious knee issue, only to be sidelined with another. But if Hudson does indeed return, he brings a high-powered arm with immense stuff and a wealth of playoff experience.
What if Daniel Hudson doesn’t return?
If Hudson is not able to return, he would join Blake Treinen in trusted relievers the Dodgers can’t count on come October. The group may also include Yency Almonte as he navigates a slow recovery from an MCL sprain as well.
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