Position battles and more: 3 decisions that will define Dodgers spring training
By Kevin Henry
Los Angeles Dodgers spring training: James Outman making push for roster
Outman received just 13 at-bats last season for the Dodgers, but the ninth-ranked prospect for the Dodgers has been impressing in the spring and is giving manager Dave Roberts another option to think about for his outfield.
The 25-year-old outfielder slashed .462/.529/.846 in his first 17 plate appearances of the spring, adding his name to a potential mix of players who could see time in center field this season at Chavez Ravine. That mix also includes Jason Heyward, Trayce Thompson, and even Chris Taylor, but Outman has certainly stood out early in spring.
“James, last year, came out and had a great year and had some at-bats with us and played well, and then he’s picked up where he left off,” Roberts said. “He controls the strike zone really well. He’s a physical player. He doesn’t miss too many fastballs and he conducts professional at-bats, so it’s just good to see guys like that, young players who are not fazed by the level of competition.”
Could the injury to Lux pave the way for a potential Opening Day roster spot for Outman?
“The truth of the matter is, with the loss of Gavin, obviously a left-handed bat makes sense to add to the club,” Roberts said. “He’s a guy who is on the roster, has Major League experience, and can play all three (outfield spots), so we’ll see how it goes, but he is certainly making a case for himself.”