Dodgers News: Luis Avilan, Team Settle 2016 Contract

Three down, three remaining. The Los Angeles Dodgers went into this offseason with six players filing for arbitration. Now, that figure has been cut in half after Luis Avilan and the team have agreed on a new contract.

The 26-year old left-handed reliever struggled a little bit after being traded to the Dodgers last season. He posted a 5.17 ERA in 15.2 innings, but did strikeout 18 batters.

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This tweet, courtesy of Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman), spells out the details of Avilan’s deal:

luis avilan, braves agree at $1.39M

— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) January 15, 2016

You’ll have to excuse Heyman for mixing up what team Avilan is currently on as he was formerly on the Atlanta Braves. It was an honest mistake.

If you’re looking for some hope after Avilan’s dismal 2015 with the Dodgers, look no further than his advanced metrics. While he did post that 5.17 ERA, he also posted a 3.64 FIP. The talent is there. Definitely.

In his career, left-handed batters have hit just .217 against him in 374 plate appearances. Anytime you can find a reliever that can help neutralize dangerous lefties, you’re pretty much golden in that regard.

Over the last three full seasons, Avilan has pitched in 210 games and compiled a 3.17 ERA. He made $530,000 last season.

The Dodgers acquired him from the Braves on July 30 last season in a three-team trade that also involved the Miami Marlins. Avilan will be a free agent after the 2018 season.

The three remaining players that have yet to come to an agreement with the team are closer Kenley Jansen, catcher Yasmani Grandal, and third baseman Justin Turner. Those should come shortly.