Key Takeaways:
– The LA Dodgers, amidst inconsistency issues, consider pursuing 2023 All-Star outfielder Luis Robert Jr.
– With booming performances from big stars, the Dodgers seek a stronger bottom lineup.
– Robert’s health remains a question, with multiple injury listings since his MLB debut in 2020.
The Los Angeles Dodgers, second-best in the National League at present, are eyeing reinforcements. With a topsy-turvy performance outside their superstar lineup, the club may seek some fresh talent. The Athletic’s Jim Bowden suggests Luis Robert Jr. of the Chicago White Sox might be a suitable target.
Dodgers’ Struggling Lineup
Currently, the Dodgers’ big-name players like Shohei Ohtani, Freddie Freeman, Mookie Betts, and Will Smith are in fine form. Yet, the remainder of the lineup is experiencing setbacks. With their current top-heavy lineup, the inclusion of Robert might enhance their outfield positions’ production.
“The Dodgers have an exceptional top lineup consisting of players such as Betts, Ohtani, Freeman, Smith and Teoscar Hernández. These players are all tipped for the All-Star team. However, the bottom of the lineup needs adjustments, especially in the outfielder area,” explains Bowden.
Potential Boost from Robert
Despite only playing 15 games this season, the All-Star from 2023, Robert, is a superb player when fit. He could potentially offer the Dodgers an added sparkle.
The Dodgers outfield to date has had limited highlights, with Hernandez being a notable exception. He brings to the team 17 home runs and a .848 OPS from 69 games this season. However, Chris Taylor, Jason Heyward, and Andy Pages have been falling short. Lackluster performances from Taylor have resulted in his reduced playing time. Pages, despite showing promise in his debut season, may face hurdles as the league becomes accustomed to him. After a stint on the sidelines due to injury, Heyward isn’t a reliable offensive contributor.
Also, James Outman, who began the year as the club’s centerfielder, has been demoted to Triple-A Oklahoma City. Following a disappointing .147 batting average in 36 major league games this year.
Robert’s Injury Concerns
However, Robert needs to address his persistent injuries. After hitting the 100-game mark for the first time in his career last season, Robert landed on the injured list this year on April 6 due to a right hip flexor strain. Post his return on June 4, he hit four home runs in eight games.
Robert clinched a six-year, $50 million contract extension with the White Sox ahead of his 2020 big league debut. In 2023, he boasted a .264/.315/.542 slash line, hit 38 home runs, and bagged his first career Silver Slugger. However, since his 2020 debut, he has had to spend time on the injured list seven times.
If Robert can stay fit, his addition to the Dodgers could bolster their lineup. With Ohtani, Betts, Freeman, Smith, and Hernandez already packing a punch, Robert could prove instrumental in revitalizing the back end of the lineup.
Trade potential for the Dodgers
Following milti-billion dollar investment this off season, the Dodgers are in an “all in” state of mind. Securing a big trade to fulfill their World Series goals wouldn’t be an outrageous move.
In spite of health concerns, Robert remains a hot prospect due to his prowess when fit. If the Dodgers opt for this addition, we could expect a more potent batting lineup and more consistency towards meeting their championship ambitions.