Dodgers: Fans React to James Outman’s Recent Performances Down in OKC
To say James Outman is the Dodgers’ No. 13 prospect in the system proves just how deep LA’s minor league program is while also heavily understating just how good the kid really is.
Friday night, the 25 year old completed the first OKC cycle since 2011 while also hitting a walk-off homer. The same night, the Dodgers were fending off Miami to secure the first win of the four game series. But even down in Triple-A, Outman made sure to remind fans of his name and just how good of a ball layer he really is.
The topic of conversation over the past few weeks since Outman’s major league debut has been if Outman should replace Cody Bellinger in the starting lineup heading into the postseason.
Now although, the kid is on fire right now and made a very impressive splash during his major league debut plus a few more games following, the two time All-Star has 6 years of experience in the Show.
However, Bellinger hasn’t been just as hot as Outman lately. He’s remained solid in the outfield but over the past two seasons he’s posted a .165 and .207 batting average as well as 121 strikeouts this season.
Meanwhile, the Redwood City native is slashing .290/ .390/ .968 so far this year splitting between his time in Double-A and Triple-A. He’s hit 24 bombs as well as collected 85 RBI this year. Here’s his most recent homer during Sunday night’s game.
James Outman is on another planet right now!
He hits a looooonnnngg homer to center field to tie the game in the 2nd inning! pic.twitter.com/wxNyKXjrce
— Oklahoma City Dodgers (@okc_dodgers) August 28, 2022
That same night, Outman finished 2-for-3 with a home run and scored a game-high three runs. During the six-game series with the Chihuahuas, Outman went 12-for-21 (.571) with five doubles, three triples, two home runs and 14 RBI. During the last three games, he went 9-for-13 with seven extra-base hits. That’s really freaking impressive and could even give Mookie a scare.
Here’s what some LA fans have said about his past few games and what his future may look like with the Dodgers.
He’s Joc 2.0 but with better defense
— LA Sports for Life (fire Alex Grinch) (@RaiderMatt5204) August 29, 2022
Damn even our minor leaguers are on ?
— ??ete C. (@PeteC_76) August 27, 2022
As a Giants fan… just another Dodger that is going to be a thorn in our collective sides for years to come!
— Mr. Woozer (@mr_woozer) August 27, 2022
“Bellinger has been incredibly bad the last 2 years. His OPS+ says he is significantly below average. Realistically they should bring Outman up and send Bellinger down right now! The Dodgers have been very patient with him. The only things that have saved him are memories of what he did 4 years ago and the fact that we have others who are performing well. We really want him to do well, but something has to change.” – Bob
“This young man to me is just so impressive. To come up & be so productive, then receive the disappointment of getting sent down & then continue his outstanding production, Wow! Not only talented, but such a great attitude! Right now the Dodgers have players that one would like to have a jersey w/the name of almost the entire roster. But when this young man comes up to stay, I’ll want his jersey & I hope that’s soon! Wishing him much continued success!” -Ernest Cabrera
I, as well as many other fans, can all agree that Outman’s 2022 season is unforgettable and I hope the kid is able to break into the starting lineup soon. I just wonder what will have to give in order to make that happen.
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NEXT: Relievers Blake Treinen and Tommy Kahnle Rehab Update
I remember reading when Outman got drafted by the Dodgers,he immediately wanted the hitting coaches to work on his swing.He has a great attitude and It’s been working out fine.I wonder how Bellinger managed to keep his horrible batting stance and swing from the minor league and to the majors.Being a good defensive player isn’t enough to keep his job.With all of the great hitters on this team,you would think that he would get some great information to help his mechanics.If he can’t adjust, Belli will be striking his way out of baseball.
I’ve been thinking that the Dodgers should trade Bellinger while he still has a positive reputation. He’s great defensively, but good defensive center fielders are abundant.