Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts revealed Julio Urias is expected to return to Southern California this weekend for further examination of his throwing shoulder. Urias underwent an MRI last week and also met with team doctor Neal ElAttrache.
Urias was diagnosed with shoulder inflammation and shut down indefinitely. He’s been at the Camelback Ranch and has yet to resume throwing. That’s heightened concern over the possibility of there being a more serious injury.
“It’s still kind of fuzzy,” Roberts said, “trying to sift through some information.”
The Dodgers have exercise extreme caution since signing Urias in 2012 as a 16 year old. He’s pitched on an innings limit in each professional season with the organization.
Urias reported to Spring Training this year under the expectation of competing for a spot in the Dodgers’ Opening Day rotation. But it quickly became apparent the club had other plans.
His workload was sporadic and included a brief stretch of no throwing due to illness. Urias remained in extended Spring Training when the regular season began. He eventually was optioned to Triple-A Oklahoma City, and joined the Dodgers near the end of April.
The team intended for the prized left-hander to remain part of the rotation for the duration of the season. But three strong performances were followed by two poor starts, and Urias was optioned back to Oklahoma City.
Roberts hoped the 20-year-old would use that opportunity to iron out mechanical issues before rejoining the Dodgers for the stretch run and any potential playoff series.
Now, the organization holds their breath as they await word on Urias’ future not only for this season, but potentially his career as well.
