Dodgers

Dodgers: Rookie Brusdar Graterol Could Have the Biggest Impact This Season

Before we get into it, yes Mookie Betts makes the lineup one of the deadliest in the league, but he’s more of a luxury than a necessity. Instead, it’s another player that was acquired through a trade some months ago. 

Former Twins prospect Brusdar Graterol was one of the pieces that were supposed to be sent to Boston in the three-team trade that ultimately fell apart. Instead, the Dodgers made a separate trade to acquire Graterol in exchange for Kenta Maeda and sent more to the Red Sox for Betts. 

The Dodgers should thank the Red Sox who thought they were getting a frontline starter in Graterol but backed out of the deal after learning he’s destined for the bullpen as well as some risks he brought that they didn’t want to take. Although Graterol could eventually become a starter, he’d best be suited to help the Dodgers out of the bullpen. The bullpen has been a weakness for the Dodgers for many years as it’s been hard to consistently find someone to bridge the gap from starter to closer Kenley Jansen.

The 21-year-old pitcher should be a huge boost to the bullpen with his electric fastball that averages 99 mph accompanied by a hard slider and average changeup. Over four seasons in the minor leagues, he’s put up a 2.48 ERA and 230 strikeouts in 214 innings. While that is impressive in its own right he also threw a successful inning in the postseason against the Yankees in which he struck out two. He also looked good in Spring Training this year throwing three innings allowing a hit with two strikeouts before it was ultimately shut down.

Graterol hasn’t had much major league experience, but that should change sometime this season. He has the talent to become the Dodgers’ closer of the future if his destiny is slated for the bullpen. For right now, the Dodgers would benefit greatly from a player with his talents to help solidify their bullpen and help make yet another run for that elusive World Series title. Especially in a shortened season where every inning will count.

Adam Salcido

“That is the way this game is -- you win, you lose, you celebrate and you suffer.” -- Vin Scully
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