Dodgers Rehabbing Julio Urias to Pitch Out of the Bullpen

Manager Dave Roberts announced that pitcher Julio Urias plans to pitch out of the bullpen upon his return from the disabled list. Urias has been out all year, recovering from shoulder surgery.

Julio Urias will rehab to be able to pitch 3 innings, Roberts said. The Dodgers’ greatest need is relief pitching.

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— Bill Shaikin (@BillShaikin) July 21, 2018

The 21-year-old southpaw made five starts for the Dodgers last season, going 0-2 with a 5.40 ERA. He threw two simulated games in Arizona last week in his recovery process.

Julio Urias is going to throw to hitters in live BP either Sun/Mon. Next step is being active with an affiliate. He will be built up to 3 innings/45 pitches to pitch him out of pen when he returns. #Dodgers still consider him a Starter but calendar makes more sense out of pen.

— AlaNNa Rizzo (@alannarizzo) July 21, 2018

The Dodgers plan to have Urias throw live batting practice before making a rehab assignment in the minor league. His limit of 45 pitches will put him in position to become a long reliever in the Dodgers bullpen.

Urias made three appearances out of the Dodgers bullpen in 2016, posting a 4.70 ERA in 7.2 innings.

Analysis

Los Angeles remains in dire need of bullpen help. While the front office will continue to inquire on relievers on the market, they have viable option from within their organization. Urias, along with Pedro Baez, Tony Cingrani and Josh Fields, are progressing from injuries as they look to return to the bullpen in August.

The Dodgers still see Urias as a starter in the longterm, but are moving him to the bullpen based on the team’s need. With the high 90s fastball and his devastating curveball, Urias has the stuff to thrive as a reliever.