Dodgers News: James Outman Discusses How Jason Heyward, Mookie Betts Have Helped Him This Year
James Outman has had quite the rollercoaster of a rookie season. He burst onto the scene in March and April, hitting .292 with seven home runs, 20 RBIs and an OPS of .991 in 29 games. He ended up winning the Rookie of the Month Award, and appeared to be on his way to an All-Star campaign.
However, he struggled mightily in May and June, hitting a combined .192/.277/.274 with two home runs and 15 RBIs in 47 games.
July was much better for the rookie outfielder, as he slashed .309/.434/.471 with an OPS of .904 in 22 games.
And in August, he’s off to a scorching start, slashing .375/.546/.583 with an OPS of 1.129 in eight games.
Outman was able to battle through the rough two month stretch, and readjust to the big league level after the pitchers adjusted to him. But he didn’t do it alone.
Outman explained to Kirsten Watson of SNLA that he’s received advice from multiple veterans in the LA locker room, mainly Jason Heyward and Mookie Betts. He first spoke about Heyward, who has become a mentor for the young outfielder.
“He’s kind of been like my mentor this whole season, just helping me with life, like handling the big leagues, handling the day, handling at-bats, keeping me in a good headspace,” Outman said. “We’ll sit on the bench and just talk about like, what pitch we think the guy’s going to throw and just stuff like that. Just kind of, like, thinking through the game. And it’s nice hearing it from somebody that’s been doing it so long.”
As for Betts, Outman explained that he has helped him a lot with his approach at the plate. He told a great story about how Betts gave him some advice in the cage, and Outman has been utilizing the tips Betts gave him ever since. Clearly, it’s worked.
Outman has become one of the Dodgers’ most consistent hitters at this point, someone that Dave Roberts has been able to rely on in big spots.
It’s not easy to overcome struggles in the Major Leagues, but clearly, Heyward and Betts have played a big role in Outman’s resurgence.
Photo Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
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