Dodgers News: Brusdar Graterol Isn’t Worried About His Biggest Shortcoming According to Analysts
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Dodgers reliever Brusdar Graterol had the best professional season of his career in 2023 as a key piece to Dave Roberts' bullpen all year long.
The Venezuelan right-hander pitched to an ERA close to 1 and isn't listening to some of his biggest critics who mention his lack of strikeouts despite his high-velocity stuff
“More than anything, batters look to swing at the first pitch against me, and so I’m looking to get quick outs. I’m taking advantage of that,” Graterol says. “That’s why I’m not getting a lot of strikeouts, but I think the most important thing is to leave a zero (on the scoreboard).”
Graterol only registered 48 strikeouts in his 67 innings of work throughout the year, but the fireballer isn't concerned with how he gets men out.
After all the main job for a reliever is to get outs in high-leverage situations, something Graterol has done in spades throughout 2023.
A shaky start from the Dodgers bullpen quickly fixed itself after they acquired Ryan Brasier near the start of June.
The former Red Sox bullpen option, Graterol and Evan Phillips have all had great second halves to the year and are sure to play big roles this postseason.
Roberts' starting rotation is down to two (and realistically one and a half) solid starters in veteran Clayton Kershaw and rookie sensation Bobby Miller.
Injuries across the board decimated LA's rotation, but one key reason why the club still won 100 games this year was their pen that included Graterol's role as the setup man.
Many pegged the Bazooka to take over the closer role for Kenley Jansen years ago but the 7th or 8th innings appear to be his sweet spot.
The best of Graterol in 2023 may still be yet to come as Chavez Ravine welcomes Arizona this Saturday night for Game 1 of the NLDS.
