Dodgers expect Julio Urias back by start of September

The Los Angeles Dodgers are set to get another impact contributor back for the stretch run of the season.

In an appearance Thursday on MLB Network Radio with insider Jon Morosi, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said that a Sept. 1 return date is “probably the most realistic timetable” for left-hander Julio Urias. Roberts also said that he is eyeing a multi-inning relief role for the 21-year-old this year before moving him back into the rotation in 2019.

Urias is still working his way back from major shoulder surgery and has not pitched for the Dodgers in over a year. However, he showed glimpses of his upside as a rookie in 2016, going 5-2 with a 3.39 ERA and making a number of playoff appearances for them that year.

The Dodgers, who lead the National League West at 61-49, are now close to full health after being bombarded with injuries earlier in the season. A young dynamo like Urias mowing down hitters out of the bullpen in September and October would be a huge luxury and only add to their utterly absurd depth.