The Los Angeles Dodgers are looking for their bullpen to rebound in 2026, and they have several relievers who should be able to help and were not with the team in 2025.
Although not new to the bullpen, Brusdar Graterol is returning from right shoulder surgery that forced him to miss the entire 2025 season. He was also limited to just 7.1 innings in 2024 after being one of their best relievers in 2023.
Graterol was optimistic heading into Spring Training, but the early results have forced the Dodgers to take a step back.
The Dodgers now plan to slow-play Gtaterol as they ramp up for the season, Dave Roberts said via Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic:
Dave Roberts said the Dodgers are slow playing Brusdar Graterol a bit this spring. Ball hasn’t come out the way they’d expected as he continues to work his way back from shoulder surgery.
— Fabian Ardaya (@FabianArdaya) February 14, 2026
Returning from shoulder injuries is notoriously difficult for both pitchers and hitters, and even more so when it’s on the throwing shoulder. Graterol specifically had his labrum repaired in his right shoulder after the 2024 World Series.
Graterol had been playing long toss and planned to throw his first bullpen session just before the start of Spring Training. He also added that his shoulder began feeling normal again in January.
It’s unlikely Graterol will be ready for Opening Day given the new development, but that ultimately depends on how his shoulder responds as he continues to increase his progression.
The right-hander is entering his final year of team control before potentially becoming a free agent after the 2026 season. He and the Dodgers reportedly avoided arbitration by agreeing to a one-year, $2.8 million contract earlier this offseason.
Brusdar Graterol stats with Dodgers
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 (178 games; five starts).
His best season came in 2023 when he tossed 67.1 innings with a 1.20 ERA.
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