Dodgers News: Gavin Lux Discusses His Comfort Level at Shortstop

This year, the Dodgers look prepared to give Gavin Lux the starting shortstop job. Lux was exclusively a shortstop during his first professional season. He moved to second base the next year because he was blocked positionally – first by Corey Seager, then Trea Turner.

In an interview with SportsNet LA on Wednesday, Lux commented on how he feels moving back to shortstop finally:

Totally comfortable. I took so many game reps and reps growing up playing shortstop. That’s all I ever really played.

Gavin Lux on SportsNet LA

This comfort level might have helped him as he recovered from an ACL tear he suffered last year. He can focus any extra energy from learning a new position into rehab.

He went on to comment about his initial move from shortstop to second base:

It was a tough adjustment going on the other side of second base. A lot of people just say, ‘Oh, if you can play short you can play second.’ And it might be true for some people, but for me it was a little bit of an adjustment that took a while to get used to. So, I think it’s almost gonna be a little bit of a breath of fresh air just to be back on the other side. That’s what I grew up playing and that’s what I love playing the most.

Gavin Lux on SportsNet LA

Defensive metrics can be tricky to interpret. Lux either struggled or was barely above average at second base in 2022, depending on which numbers you prioritize. He managed three outs above average in 2022, but committed nine errors and had a negative ultimate zone rating.

Some players find their struggles in the field affect their performance at the plate, and vice versa. A good spring training at shortstop could only bode well for Lux in batter’s box.

Just like in 2023, Lux is primed for a breakout year as the Dodgers shortstop in 2024. The Dodgers hope he fulfills his potential as their first-round pick out of high school in 2016 and becomes a franchise shortstop for years to come.

Photo Credit: Wendell Cruz-USA TODAY Sports

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