Dodgers News: Roberts Talks Miguel Rojas Plan, Early Roster Outlook
When the Dodgers acquired Miguel Rojas from the Marlins, there was some initial confusion about what his role would be in Los Angeles. Rojas had been Miami’s starting shortstop for the last few years, and LA had a theoretical opening at short with the departure of Trea Turner.
Within a couple weeks, both president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman and general manager Brandon Gomes confirmed that Gavin Lux would be the team’s starter at short, with Rojas filling more of a utility role. Over the weekend, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts expanded a bit on the role Rojas will fill.
“I do expect him to play some third base, I expect Miguel [Vargas] to stay over there at second base. I expect [Rojas] to play some short, some second, potentially even, I know he’s got a first base glove. The challenge for me is making sure I keep him relevant. He’s already got an openness just to stay on the baseball field and help in any way, so it’s up to me to figure out how I can give guys a day off to keep Miguel involved because I think he is additive.”
Roberts also talked about how Rojas and others bring defensive flexibility that helps when building a roster. According to Roberts, the team has a rough roster plan, but they’re keeping an open mind throughout spring as they watch different players fight for jobs.
“There are things still to be determined. I think that our guys understand the landscape of our roster and how it can shake out. So, with that, there is an openness to playing left field, center field, second base …. Miguel Rojas is a prime example. We have a good idea of how it’s going to shake out, but we have a lot of good players and things always do change so we’ve got to be open to that.”
The infield seems pretty set, with Freddie Freeman, Vargas, Lux, and Max Muncy as the starters and Rojas as the backup everywhere. The big remaining questions are in the outfield, where Mookie Betts is the only thing set in stone. It should be a fun spring as we watch those battles play out.
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