Dodgers GM Expects Gavin Lux to Look Better Than Ever Offensively
The spring training discussion around Dodgers shortstop Gavin Lux has revolved entirely around his defense. Abruptly switching positions 12 days before the regular season begins is a major development; meanwhile, Lux has quietly been an excellent hitter in his first competitive games since he suffered a major knee injury a year ago.
In his first eight games this spring, Lux is slashing .348/.423/.348 with three RBI. He seems comfortable at the plate and looks like the hitter who was batting near .300 before he suffered a neck injury in 2022.
Dodgers vice president Brandon Gomes does not seem overly surprised. In a recent article by Jim Bowden of The Athletic, he quoted Gomes saying that Lux might look better than ever in the batter’s box.
“Lux hasn’t missed a beat offensively and may look better than we’ve ever seen him in the box. To miss an entire year and still have his rhythm and timing versus major-league pitching is really impressive.”
— Dodgers GM Brandon Gomes, via Jim Bowden of The Athletic
Lux, the 2019 minor league player of the year, found his footing at the bottom of the lineup back in 2022. He acted as a second leadoff hitter, setting the table for the Dodgers’ superstars at the top.
His defense aside, the Dodgers would love to have a productive hitter at the bottom of the order. He’s a significant upgrade offensively over Miguel Rojas.
Still, it feels more and more like Lux’s defense will dictate his future. On Friday, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts announced Lux would be moving from shortstop to second base. He will switch positions with Mookie Betts for the foreseeable future.
While the Dodgers could have gone outside the organization to replace Lux at short, they chose to keep his bat in the lineup and move him to second. This reflects what the Dodgers think of Lux, what he offers offensively, and the fact that he isn’t eligible for free agency until after the 2026 season.
Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
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