Dodgers: Julio Urias Returns To First Big League Action Since 2017

Julio Urias’ long road back to the big leagues is complete. In what should serve as no minor footnote of the Dodgers 17-4 win Saturday, Urias closed out the game with a scoreless ninth. Urias threw 12 pitches, nine of which were strikes.

His strikeout of catcher Francisco Pena was the final moment in one of the best Saturday’s of the year.

Welcome back, @theteenager7! pic.twitter.com/7IdAi3PFdg

— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) September 15, 2018

Moreover, this was Urias’ first appearance in a big league game since sustaining injury on May 20th, 2017 against the Miami Marlins. The young southpaw left that start after two and a third innings. Urias then underwent major shoulder surgery that would see him on the shelf for over a year. You think it wasn’t a long road back for the young man? Think about everything that has occurred in your life since May of 2017. Heck, I was almost a different person way back then.

Still, Dodgers Nation has done the job in preparing you for this hallmark moment. Our Tim Rogers has diligently covered several of Urias’ rehab starts, including one in which he spoke to him about his stuff.

This is an exciting moment for the organization – Urias is still just 21 years of age and has a lifetime of baseball ahead of him. Urias should be a Dodger until at least the end of the 2024 season. Los Angeles has another member of the young core back and on the field during what will be a memorable pennant race.

Analysis

Sure, Urias missed valuable time in his career. However, what he gained in overcoming adversity should serve him well as he becomes a seasoned big league pitcher. The stuff will fully return, and although the scars remain; Urias has shown the grit and determination an athlete needs to have long-term staying power in the majors.