The Los Angeles Dodgers transferred Julio Urias to the 60-day disabled list in a corresponding move to claiming J.T. Chargois off waivers from the Minnesota Twins on Friday. Urias’ DL counter won’t begin until Opening Day, but in any event he was unlikely to pitch prior to the All-Star break.
Urias underwent anterior capsule surgery last June, ending his 2017 season. He was projected to need 12 to 14 months to recover.
There reportedly was some belief over the winter that he would make an early return, but the Dodgers appear content to allow Urias ample time to recover from having his throwing shoulder operated on.
Speaking at last month’s FanFest event, the 21-year-old said he was feeling “healthy” and optimistic in contributing to the Dodgers this season. Urias threw three weeks ago for the first time since his surgery.
Prior to suffering the injury in a start for Triple-A Oklahoma City, Urias pitched to a 5.40 ERA, 4.70 FIP, 1.59 WHIP, 11 strikeouts and 14 walks in five starts with the Dodgers. In OKC, he went 3-0 with a 2.59 ERA.
Even if Urias manages to resume pitching near the midway point of the season, it might be unlikely that he plays a significant role for the Dodgers. Of course, he could emerge as a September call-up and factor into the bullpen picture in potential playoff games.
