Dodgers Announce First Cuts of Spring Training
The Los Angeles Dodgers made a flurry of moves Sunday afternoon. The Dodgers optioned right-hander Nick Frasso and reassigned right-handers Carlos Duran, Julian Fernandez, and Justin Jarvis to minor league camp.
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Outfielders Ryan Ward, Justin Dean, Zyhir Hope, and Josue De Paula have also been reassigned to minor league camp. Hope and De Paula were two particular players who stood out this spring, but it appears the pair will begin the season in the minors.
There are currently 59 players remaining in big league camp at Camelback Ranch. The abundance of talent on the Dodgers roster makes it especially difficult for young players to make the Opening Day roster.
Manager Dave Roberts spoke about the challenges young players face in this spring’s competition.
“Guys will get an opportunity,” Roberts said. “When you have a roster that’s arguably the most talented roster in history, 1 through 40, playing time is hard.”
However, as Opening Day quickly approaches, the Dodgers need to finalize the roster before the team travels to Japan.
A few notable players still vying for a spot include infielder Hyeseong Kim, top prospect Dalton Rushing, and outfielder James Outman. Kim has struggled at the plate this spring, but has impressed his teammates with his defensive prowess.
Roberts shared the Dodgers are concerned about Kim’s bat as he makes the transition from the Korea Baseball Organization to Major League Baseball.
“I would say, if there’s one part of it, the question mark, I would say it is the bat,” Roberts said. “The competition is different over there than here. … Obviously he’s going through some swing changes that he believes will help him also make this transition easier and sustainable.
Photo Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images
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