In a true roster carousel, the Los Angeles Dodgers have made important decisions. Jason Heyward, the 34-year-old outfielder, returns to the starting lineup after an injury and is expected to provide new impetus to the team’s lower batting order. Meanwhile, James Outman had to vacate his locker room as rookie Andy Pages seized the opportunity in his position after drawing attention to himself with an impressive first week in Major League Baseball. Outman, who has played center field for the past two opening seasons, will now enter the minor leagues.
Miguel Vargas was already on his way to Los Angeles, where he will get another chance in the big leagues. The trigger for these roster moves was an injury to Max Muncy, who suffered a minor right oblique strain, which will hopefully only result in a ten-day layoff. In addition to the addition of right-handed pitcher Ricky Vanasco to the lineup, there were six changes to the Dodgers’ roster.
For Outman, who impressed last year, the current season has been more difficult with a batting average of just .147 and frequent strikeouts. Unlike last year, he doesn’t get the chance to play every day and work out his problems in attack, instead he has to make way against left-handers. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts had to have the hard conversation and inform Outman of his demotion.
The young Cuban exceptional player Pages should initially take over the position of center fielder and play every day, claims Roberts. His shot control was highly valued within the organization, even as signs of regression began to appear. Miguel Vargas, who is coming off an outstanding minors season, will now serve as the Dodgers’ left fielder. Vargas worked hard on his hitting over the winter, regaining both confidence and strength. Although the Dodgers have alternatives at third base in Hernández and Rojas, there is evidence to suggest that Vargas will have a longer tenure with the team.
Meanwhile, Chris Taylor remains an unused part of the active roster despite having an ongoing contract until next year. Taylor would have to agree to a move to the minors unless the Dodgers chose another solution. Manager Roberts emphasizes that Taylor should be patient before possible consequences are drawn. (eulerpool AFX)
2024-05-18 05:11:26
#Outman #Vargas #returns
