Dodgers Injury Update: Two Key Relievers Still Weeks Away From Returning

Two key members of the Los Angeles Dodgers bullpen, Ryan Brasier and Joe Kelly, are still ways away from returning to a big league mound.

Los Angeles Times staff writer Mike DiGiovanna reported that Kelly and Brasier are ‘weeks away from returning.’

“Relievers Ryan Brasier, out since April 29 because of a right calf strain, and Joe Kelly, out since May 6 because of a shoulder strain, are weeks away from returning. Brasier has kept his arm activated and Kelly is playing catch at 90 feet.”

Per Mike DiGiovanna of The LA Times

Brasier, 36, doesn’t have a clear timeline for his return. The last update on Brasier was that he would throw off the mound at “some point soon,” which was a couple of weeks ago. Nonetheless, Brasier has kept his arm activated.

The right-handed reliever was put on the injured list on April 29, retroactive to April 28, due to a right calf strain. The L.A. veteran has not had a solid start to the season. In 12 appearances thus far, he’s recorded a 4.63 ERA, 12 strikeouts, and a 1.11 WHIP over 11.2 innings.

Kelly began his throwing program in late May, taking the first step toward making his return. Since then, he has been playing catch at 90 feet. The 35-year-old was placed on the 15-day injured list on May 6 due to a right shoulder strain. The right-hander may still need to ramp up his workload and even make a minor league appearance for a rehab assignment.

It’s a step in the right direction for these two veteran right-handers; however, they may need to wait some time before they’re back with the big league club.

Photo Credit: Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports

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