The Dodgers outfield is an issue. A giant one, in line with Davy Andrews at FanGraphs. The numbers, sadly, don't lie: This area staff has a collective -0.5 WAR, amongst different dismal statistics.
With Jason Heyward out due to again tightness, the Dodgers' most popular outfield configuration has already undergone main adjustments to take care of, together with Taylor Trammell's declaration of waivers and shuffling gamers all around the area. Chris Taylor appears to be bearing the brunt of the issues up to now. He has only one hit in 35 at-bats and a 42.9% strikeout proportion, making little contact regardless of aggressively chasing pitches within the zone. Kiké Hernández can also be struggling, each on the plate and within the area, and whereas it's nonetheless early within the season, his -0.9 WAR total could also be trigger for concern.
However don't fear, Andy Pages — who confidently smacked the primary pitch he noticed within the majors for a success — is right here to remain for some time. Teoscar Hernández is settling in properly as properly, and at present on a scorching streak that ought to enhance his .275 batting common. There may be nonetheless hope.
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Carl Erskine, the final of the fabled Boys of Summer time, handed away earlier this week and left a legacy that gained't quickly be forgotten. Tyler Kepner at The Athletic remembers Erskine not just for his contributions to the game of baseball, but in addition for his historical past and magic.
The Dodgers are additionally celebrating the life and legacy of Jackie Robinson this week, as is custom. They had been joined by Harry Edwards, founding father of the Olympic Human Rights Challenge and lifelong advocate for racial fairness in sport, who spoke about what Robinson meant not solely to him, however to athletes all over the place place, writes Invoice Shaikin on the Los Angeles Instances.
When Michael Busch was traded from LA to the Cubs this winter, the transfer represented one other vital improve for Chicago due to its pals out west, writes Rowan Kavner of Fox Sports activities.
