Justin Bruihl was among the players who made their MLB debut with the Los Angeles Dodgers during the 2021 season, and he quickly emerged as a key reliever. After receiving his first big league call-up in August, he posted a 2.89 ERA, 3.97 FIP and 1.07 WHIP in 18.2 innings of work.
Prior to that point, Bruihl had not pitched in a game above the Double-A level. “It definitely was a little bit shocking,” he said at the time. “I wouldn’t say I didn’t expect it, because this was my goal to start the year.
“I wanted to make it to the big leagues this year. A little bit surprising, but at the same time I felt like I was ready for it.”
Bruihl looked to build on his successful debut and earned a spot on the Dodgers’ 2022 Opening Day roster. However, he was later optioned to Triple-A Oklahoma City after being a mainstay in the bullpen for the first three months of the regular season.
Bruihl returned to the Dodgers in September and overall went 1-1 with a 3.80 ERA, 5.35 FIP and 1.18 WHIP over 23.2 innings pitched (24 games).
While pitching for Oklahoma City, the left-hander sported a 3-1 record with a 3.56 ERA and 1.71 WHIP across 30.1 innings (25 appearances, one start).
Justin Bruihl 2022 highlight
Bruihl enjoyed his most memorable performance of the 2022 season on September 18 against the San Francisco Giants when he retired the only batter faced and recorded his first career MLB save.
The Dodgers celebrated the accomplishment by giving Bruihl a shower of beer, ketchup and milk, among other drinks and condiments in the clubhouse.
2023 outlook
Bruihl is under contract through the 2028 season and won’t be eligible for salary arbitration until 2025. The 25-year-old has two Minor League options remaining and could begin the 2023 season with Oklahoma City if he does not earn a spot in the big league bullpen during Spring Training.
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