Silva: Graterol looks poised for more save chances
Drew Silva explains why the Dodgers' current bullpen situation is trending toward more save opportunities for Brudar Graterol, making him worth fantasy consideration.
Video Transcript
DREW SILVA: Daniel Hudson is done for the rest of the 2022 season after tearing the ACL in his left knee when he tried to field a ball in front of the mound on Friday, June 24. And Craig Kimbrel has allowed 13 runs, 10 of them earned over his last 15 or 1/3 innings, dating back to May 16. The cause and effect in Los Angeles is that, Dodgers manager, Dave Roberts, is having to try different options in the closer role, including hard-throwing 23-year-old Brusdar Graterol.
Graterol has an ERA just over 4. But it's better than kimbrel's. And his peripheral numbers are even more so an improvement when compared to the veteran Kimbrel and all of his ninth inning experience. Speaking of which, Graterol's first converted save this season came on Sunday, June 26, in the 11th inning against the Braves, in the same game that Kimbrel blew the lead in the bottom of the 10th. During that outing, Graterol was clocked at 102.5 miles per hour. And his final pitch of the night sailed in at 101.9. Velocity isn't everything, but it can't hurt for a young pitcher trying to claim an elevated role. Look for Graterol to become a larger presence in the closer mix the rest of the way for one of the most talented clubs in baseball.
