For all their meticulous planning and cautious handling of Julio Urias, the Los Angeles Dodgers were unable to prevent their prized pitching prospect from suffering an injury. Urias underwent anterior capsule surgery in June, ending his 2016 season.
Urias felt the injury on a pitch during what became his final start with Triple-A Oklahoma City. He nonetheless completed two more innings while holding his usual velocity. Lingering soreness prompted testing on his throwing shoulder, which was when the injury was discovered.
The 21-year-old admitted to feeling a swing of emotions once it became evident season-ending surgery was required. While a shoulder operation can derail a pitcher’s career, Urias does not have that concern, according to Bill Plunkett of the Southern California News Group:
“I’m not scared,” Urias said of regaining his former skills. “I’m thinking positively about coming back 100 percent and maybe even better if I put in the work.”
Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman also downplayed the level of concern, citing the injury as “acute” and not a product of wear and tear. What’s more, Friedman relayed Dr. Neal ElAttrache, who performed the surgery, was encouraged by the MRI results.
ElAttrache was further pleased after repairing Urias’ shoulder in what was described as a clean procedure. The Dodgers projected a 12 to 14-month recovery, and Friedman added the organization will err on the side of caution throughout the process.
During time with the Dodgers and Oklahoma City, Urias threw a combined 54.2 innings this year, which was his lowest total since throwing 54.1 over 18 starts with Low-A Great Lakes in his first professional season in 2013.
