Los Angeles Dodgers Projected Closer To Begin Season On Injured List

Los Angeles Dodgers relief pitcher Daniel Hudson has been dealing with a knee injury since last year.

Despite undergoing surgery to repair a torn ACL and facing live hitters a few times, his knee has been slower to recover than expected.

As a result, Hudson has announced that he will not participate in any Cactus League games this spring and will not be ready to start the upcoming baseball season.

A frustrated Daniel Hudson said he won’t pitch in a Cactus League game this spring and won’t be ready to start the year. His knee has required a few days to bounce back between outings off the mound. So now they’re figuring next steps to “roadmap” his rehab schedule.

— Fabian Ardaya (@FabianArdaya) March 20, 2023

Hudson has expressed that he does not want to take up a spot on the team if he needs a few days between outings, which will be a factor in his rehabilitation schedule.

The Dodgers are working to establish a new rehabilitation routine for Hudson, and it is likely that he will not be able to play until at least mid-April.

Daniel Hudson said he’s still frustrated by pace of progress in recovery from knee surgery. Acknowledged that he won’t be ready to open season on #Dodgers active roster. Recovery time between throwing sessions is main issue.

— Bill Plunkett (@billplunkettocr) March 20, 2023

The absence of Hudson will be a significant loss for the Dodgers, who may use a committee approach to fill the closer role until Hudson is ready to return.

The team is considering Brusdar Graterol and Evan Phillips as potential candidates for the position. Photo Credit:  Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports