Gavin Lux Opens Up on Being Removed as Dodgers Shortstop
Spring Training has gone far from the plan for Gavin Lux. Lux came into Dodgers camp set to become the team’s everyday shortstop, and is now trying to adjust as their second baseman.
With Lux having a hard time playing shortstop through Cactus League action, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts decided to make Mookie Betts the ‘permanent’ shortstop for now. Meanwhile, the 26-year-old Lux will take Betts’ place at second base.
Lux shared his thoughts after the big move, with his primary focus set on getting ready for Opening Day in Seoul, South Korea at his new position.
“Obviously, it’s a little disappointing. It’s hard not to (be). But at the same time we have three days before we go to Korea so you have to just move on, which for me, as long as I’m in the lineup and I get to play, I don’t really care where it is. … It doesn’t do any good for anybody to sit and mope around. Like we talk about, me and Mookie are getting out there early every single day, turning double plays, talking through stuff together. I think it’s that more than anything. There’s no other option. We have to move forward. The ultimate goal is to win games.”
— Gavin Lux, via The Athletic’s Fabian Ardaya.
Though Lux might still need time to return to normal after not playing for an entire season due to a torn ACL, the Dodgers could not afford to risk Lux costing them from the shortstop position. The Dodgers all in on winning now, and this move is one they had to make at this stage in the spring.
Now, the Dodgers will need to see more from Lux at second. It wasn’t all pretty for him against the Cleveland Guardians on Monday as he was unable to secure an easy out and was struck out due to a pitch clock violation.
He’ll need to play more consistently to keep his place in the Dodgers’ lineup.
Photo Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Leave him back at short. Put Betts at second. Get rid of Roberts and Friedman.
You are joking, right? They can’t afford to have that weak of a left side. Muncy is still trying to get third pat and with Lux over there you’re asking for trouble. Everyone and their Grandmother is going to try to hit over to the left side. No dude. Unless they pull off the trade for Adames it has to be this way. It’s either that or send Lux down and use Rojas at short.