Dodgers News: Trea Turner Activated For the Game Tonight in LA
The Dodgers have been patiently waiting for Trea Turner to be ready to go. Place on the COVID injured list prior to the trade with Washington, it’s just been a waiting game for the star shortstop. But it appears as if the wait is finally over.
Turner was officially activated by the Dodgers tonight ahead of their game against the Angels. Roberts noted in the pregame press conference that he would be available off the bench if they could clear the activation with MLB.
Trea Turner has been activated for tonight’s game. #Dodgers
— David Vassegh (@THEREAL_DV) August 7, 2021
Roberts also noted that he would be starting on Saturday for the Dodgers. Turner will play second base in his first start with Los Angeles. Corey Seager would presumably be at shortstop during that game, Turner’s natural position.
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Adding Turner into the lineup drastically changes the makeup of the Dodgers lineup. He brings in a .322/.369/.521 slash line with one of the fastest sprint speeds in all of baseball. He has a great glove in the infield and will likely play several positions this year with LA.
LA Trea. pic.twitter.com/8Ea32OUwCC
— MLB (@MLB) August 7, 2021
Turner has 18 homeruns in 96 games played for the Nationals and has driven in 49 runs. Most of his starts have come from the number 1 or 2 hole in the lineup this year. Given the build of the Dodgers lineup, it would be safe to assume he will be batting right behind Mookie Betts in the order.
But the good news is that he’s here! The Dodgers are a significantly better offensive and defensive team with Turner here, and he should have an impact almost immediately. His addition also likely means that Cody Bellinger gets fewer starts as he continues to struggle greatly with the bat.
Doc noted in the pregame that Bellinger would start against right-handed pitching. In order to make room on the active roster, the Dodgers placed Victor Gonzalez on the injured list with knee inflammation.
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