Dave Roberts Confirms Return Timeline for Key Injured Reliever as Dodgers Eye Much-Needed Boost to Bullpen Stability

The Los Angeles Dodgers have faced a challenging start to the 2025 MLB season, grappling with a series of injuries that have tested the depth and resilience of their roster. Among the most pressing concerns has been the status of their bullpen, a unit that has historically been a cornerstone of the team’s success. Manager Dave Roberts has been at the forefront of providing updates on the health and recovery of key players, offering insights into the team’s strategies and expectations moving forward.

One of the most significant developments has been the injury to star reliever Evan Phillips. Phillips, known for his high-leverage appearances and ability to close out games, was sidelined early in the season. Roberts, however, expressed optimism about Phillips’ recovery. After observing Phillips’ bullpen session, Roberts noted that the reliever could be activated as soon as the first or second week of April, a timeline that would be a welcome boost to the Dodgers’ bullpen .

In contrast, the situation with Brusdar Graterol has been more concerning. The right-handed reliever suffered a grade 3 hamstring strain, an injury that Roberts described as a “long road back.” Given the severity of the strain, Graterol’s absence is expected to be prolonged, depriving the Dodgers of one of their most effective bullpen arms .

Additionally, rookie pitcher River Ryan, who had shown promise with a 1.33 ERA in his first four starts, was placed on the injured list after exiting a game against the Pittsburgh Pirates with an arm injury. Roberts confirmed that Ryan’s season would be over, a significant setback for both the player and the team .

The Dodgers’ bullpen challenges have been compounded by injuries to other key pitchers. Tyler Glasnow and Roki Sasaki, both integral parts of the pitching staff, have faced shoulder issues that have sidelined them for extended periods. Roberts has been candid about the uncertainty surrounding their recoveries, acknowledging the strain these injuries place on the team’s pitching depth .

Despite these setbacks, Roberts has highlighted the resilience of the Dodgers’ bullpen. The emergence of pitchers like Landon Knack and the activation of Walker Buehler from his rehab assignment have provided some relief. Roberts expressed confidence in the depth of the bullpen, noting that while the injuries are challenging, they also present opportunities for other pitchers to step up and contribute .

Offensively, the Dodgers have also faced challenges. Catcher Will Smith, who has been dealing with a lingering ankle injury, was hit by a pitch on his left knee during a spring training game. Roberts indicated that the move was precautionary and that Smith would have only caught one more inning if he had stayed in the game. Smith’s ability to recover quickly is crucial, as he is a key component of the Dodgers’ lineup .

The injury woes have not been limited to pitchers and catchers. Outfielder Teoscar Hernández suffered a significant injury after being hit by a pitch on his lower leg. Roberts expressed concern, stating that Hernández could barely move his foot, making a stint on the injured list likely. Hernández’s absence would be a blow to the Dodgers’ outfield depth and offensive production .

In the infield, Tommy Edman, who had started the season strongly, was sidelined due to an ankle injury. Roberts provided a positive update, stating that Edman wouldn’t require a rehab assignment before returning to play. This news was encouraging, as Edman’s versatility and defensive prowess are valuable assets to the team .

The Dodgers’ injury situation has underscored the importance of depth and adaptability. Roberts has emphasized the need for players to step up and seize opportunities in the absence of key contributors. While the challenges are significant, the team’s depth and the leadership of Roberts provide a foundation for navigating this difficult period.

Looking ahead, the Dodgers will need to continue to adapt and manage their roster effectively. The return of injured players like Phillips and Edman will bolster the team’s lineup and bullpen, but until then, the focus will be on maximizing the contributions of the available roster. Roberts’ leadership and the resilience of the Dodgers’ players will be crucial in overcoming the current challenges and positioning the team for success as the season progresses.

In conclusion, while the Dodgers face a series of injuries that have tested their depth and resilience, the updates provided by Manager Dave Roberts offer a sense of optimism. The anticipated returns of key players and the emergence of others present opportunities for the team to overcome these challenges. With Roberts at the helm, the Dodgers remain focused on navigating the remainder of the season and striving for success despite the adversity they face.