Dodgers’ Graterol Undergoes Back Surgery Following Rehab Setback
Los Angeles Dodgers reliever Brusdar Graterol has undergone back surgery, a development confirmed by Jack Harris of the California Post. The procedure follows back tightness that ended his minor league rehab assignment with Triple-A Oklahoma City on 12 May.
Graterol, who had not pitched in a competitive game for 549 days prior to 2 May, is navigating a complex recovery timeline. The relief pitcher is still in the process of recovering from right shoulder surgery performed in November 2024. His recent appearance for Oklahoma City on 2 May marked his first game action in over a year and a half, but his progress was halted shortly after.
The back tightness that necessitated the surgery ended his rehab assignment after an outing on 12 May. Graterol had pitched in only four games during this specific assignment, which represented his sole game action over the last two seasons. The confirmation of the procedure was reported by Jack Harris of the California Post, following an image Graterol posted from a hospital bed on Instagram on Sunday.
In his social media update, Graterol maintained a resilient tone regarding his health. “I fell again, but I won’t stay down here. I will rise. My goal isn’t over — it’s just beginning,” he wrote. This message aligns with his public persona, which has previously featured posts emphasising perseverance, including a May 21 message stating he is a warrior who does not give up.
The Dodgers organisation has not provided a specific timeline for Graterol’s return to the major league roster. The surgery comes as a significant hurdle in his rehabilitation, extending an absence that has already kept him out of competitive play for nearly 18 months. His previous shoulder operation in November 2024 set the stage for this extended recovery period.
While Graterol’s medical status remains the primary focus for the Dodgers, other developments in Major League Baseball have drawn attention this weekend. Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Cristopher Sánchez has extended his scoreless innings streak to 44 2/3, and Dodgers broadcaster Orel Hershiser has been interviewed regarding his own MLB record for scoreless innings. These events, however, are distinct from Graterol’s ongoing medical situation.
