Brusdar Graterol enjoyed a successful debut season with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2020, but took a step back last year as he battled through injuries and inconsistencies.
The right-hander fell behind in Spring Training and did not earn a spot on the Dodgers’ Opening Day roster. He instead opened the year on the 10-day injured list, which wasn’t a long stay as he rejoined the team on April 18.
After making just three appearances, Graterol was placed on the IL for a second time with right forearm tightness at the start of May. That historically can be a precursor to a more serious injury for a pitcher, but his MRI came back clean.
Graterol was sidelined for five weeks before being reinstated and optioned to Triple-A Oklahoma City. He returned to the big leagues on July 2, but after pitching in two games, was sent back down to the Dodgers’ top affiliate.
Graterol was called up to L.A. for a third time on July 23 as part of a series of roster moves. He reportedly drew interest from clubs at the MLB trade deadline, but the Dodgers ultimately decided to hold on to him.
Graterol was optioned to Oklahoma City on July 31 but returned to the Majors for good on Aug. 3. His fourth stint with the Dodgers began with five consecutive scoreless appearances, which manager Dave Roberts believed was partly the byproduct of Justin Turner helping the 23-year-old make key adjustments.
In 34 appearances with the Dodgers, Graterol went 3-0 with a 4.59 ERA, 3.95 FIP and 1.41 WHIP over 33.1 innings pitched. He posted a 2-2 record with a 6.48 ERA and 1.02 WHIP in 16.2 frames with Triple-A Oklahoma City (17 games).
Graterol’s 2021 highlight
Graterol pitched his best baseball come postseason time as he allowed just one run and four hits in nine innings of work across three series. He compiled a 1.00 ERA and 0.44 WHIP in eight appearances.
2022 outlook
Graterol remains under team control and will look to build on a strong finish to the 2021 season. He figures to compete for one of the spots in the Dodgers’ bullpen during Spring Training, but could also see time at Oklahoma City if his struggles resurface.
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