Show summary Hide summary
- Latest medical update: back surgery confirmed for Dodgers reliever
- Key dates and the rehab timeline
- How the procedure changes his 2026 availability
- Performance concerns: velocity and role in the bullpen
- Contract status and roster implications for the Dodgers
- What to expect during recovery and next steps
Brusdar Graterol’s return to the mound has stalled again after a new spinal procedure, leaving the Dodgers with fresh uncertainty over a key reliever’s availability for 2026.
Latest medical update: back surgery confirmed for Dodgers reliever
The Dodgers announced further tests after Graterol felt pain following a Triple-A rehab outing in May. Imaging showed a problem that prompted removal from the assignment.
Dodgers reliever Brusdar Graterol hints at worrisome setback in injury recovery
Lisa Bonet, Jason Momoa reunite at daughter Lola’s graduation: rare public reunion
Within days, Los Angeles moved him to the 60-day injured list. Team officials then weighed non-surgical options before the club opted for an operation.
Graterol later confirmed the procedure on social media. In his post, he acknowledged the setback and framed the surgery as another step in his comeback.
Key dates and the rehab timeline
- November 2024: Graterol underwent labrum surgery after the postseason.
- 2025 season: He missed the full year while rehabbing the shoulder.
- Spring 2026: Worked to regain velocity in camp but lagged behind his pre-injury form.
- Early May 2026: Began a rehab assignment with Triple-A Oklahoma City.
- May 12 outing: Felt a back “flare,” prompting evaluation and imaging.
- One week later: Transferred to the 60-day IL while the team considered surgery.
- Recent: Surgery performed, starting another long recovery window.
How the procedure changes his 2026 availability
No official recovery timetable has been released. Medical experts expect a multi-month rehab after spinal surgery.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts had warned the process would be drawn out. General manager Brandon Gomes had similarly signaled surgery as a likely step if conservative care failed.
The move now casts doubt on Graterol’s ability to pitch this season. Returning from two major interventions — labrum then back — increases uncertainty.
Performance concerns: velocity and role in the bullpen
Before the back issue, Graterol’s heater had slipped from the upper-90s to under 95 mph during his last rehab outing. That decline raised red flags about his ability to resume late-inning work.
His presence had been pivotal during the Dodgers’ recent postseason run. Without him, Los Angeles must adjust its late-game mix.
Contract status and roster implications for the Dodgers
- Graterol entered the season on a $2.8 million contract.
- The team now faces bullpen depth choices for 2026.
- Options include promoting from Triple-A, trade market moves, or internal role shifts.
How long the Dodgers wait and whether they add a veteran arm will shape their roster strategy in the coming months.
What to expect during recovery and next steps
Typical post-surgical recovery will include rest, controlled rehab, and progressive throwing programs. Timelines vary widely.
Medical staff will use imaging and performance markers to guide his program. The organization aims to avoid rushing him back.
Graterol’s own message emphasized resilience. He wrote that the setback won’t stop him and that he sees rehabilitation as the start of the next phase of his career.
