Dodgers: Debuts we’re excited to finally see this season

Excited for Dodgers debut: Brusdar Graterol

Acquired in the trade that sent Kenta Maeda to Minnesota, reliever Brusdar Graterol is often overlooked when talking about offseason acquisitions. However, he could turn into a key bullpen piece for manager Dave Roberts this season.

While Graterol probably wouldn’t have made the 26-man active roster had the season started on time, with expanded rosters and the need for extra pitchers early in the season, he should get a chance on the 30-man roster.

The 21-year-old was originally supposed to be sent to Boston in the Mookie Betts trade, but a physical scared the Red Sox away, leaving him for the Dodgers. For all of the talk about what the Dodgers gave up for a short timeframe of Betts in their lineup, the twist in negotiations could provide a pleasant surprise in the hard-throwing right-hander.

Baseball America ranks Graterol the third best prospect in an elite Dodgers system. He is the 60th ranked prospect in all of baseball. His fastball can reach near 100 MPH, and if he develops his change-up, watch out.

It will be fascinating to see if Graterol quickly becomes a go-to pitcher out of the Dodgers ‘pen this season.