Dodgers Face Heartbreak as Brusdar Graterol’s Injury Sidelines Him for Postseason
The Los Angeles Dodgers are grappling with devastating news that could significantly impact their World Series aspirations. Relief pitcher Brusdar Graterol, a key asset in their bullpen, is unlikely to return for the remainder of the postseason due to injury, a blow to a team already under pressure to perform.
Setback for Graterol
In a press briefing, Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman shared the somber update, indicating that Graterol’s journey back to the mound has not progressed as hoped. “No, it hasn’t gone as smoothly as he would like, as we would like,” Friedman stated. “So it’s been hard to kind of ramp up the volume that he would need to get back. So my expectation is he will not be back this year.”
This news comes as the Dodgers are in the thick of their World Series campaign, facing off against the New York Yankees. Graterol, who previously underwent shoulder surgery in November 2024, was anticipated to play a crucial role in the postseason. His absence leaves a noticeable gap in the Dodgers’ pitching strategy.
Impact on the Dodgers’ Bullpen
Graterol’s injury is particularly disheartening given his effectiveness in critical late-game situations throughout the regular season. Known for his high velocity and ability to induce ground balls, he has been a reliable option for manager Dave Roberts when the pressure mounts. The Dodgers now face the challenge of navigating the playoffs without one of their most dependable arms, forcing them to rely on untested options or other pitchers who may not be as equipped to handle high-leverage scenarios.
Looking Ahead
As the Dodgers prepare for the remainder of the World Series, the team must regroup and adapt in the face of this adversity. While the loss of Graterol is a significant setback, the Dodgers have a history of resilience and depth that they will need to tap into to keep their championship dreams alive. The coming days will reveal how they plan to fill the void left by Graterol and whether they can overcome this latest obstacle in their quest for a title.
