Editorials

If Kemp Goes to the DL, Puig Or Pederson To Be Called Up?

Ever since his torrid spring training, Yasiel Puig has found his name on the lips of Dodger fans everywhere.

The only problem? There was no room at the inn.

Fast-forward to Wednesday night and the struggling Matt Kemp was forced to leave the game with what the team is calling a strained hamstring.

While a trip to the disabled list has yet to be confirmed, the blogosphere and Twitter world have already taken to their computers in trying to guess what the Dodgers’ next move will be.

As many have pointed out, the biggest problem for the Dodgers would be finding someone comfortable playing center field should Kemp miss some time.

My first thought was that Carl Crawford could slide over, but Bill Shaikin pointed out that Crawford has only played in center once since 2005.

So cross that idea off the list.

The next question turns to which prospect would get called up — would it be the fan favorite Yasiel Puig, or the relatively unknown (among outsiders) Joc Pederson?

While many don’t want to hear it, the common belief is that Pederson would get the call first in this situation simply because he’s the center fielder in AA right now.

Pederson, a 21-year old prospect whom the Dodgers drafted in the 11th round of the 2010 draft, has been every bit the equal of Puig this season.

In 51 games, Pederson is hitting .313 with eight home runs and 15 steals.

The other option, of course, is Puig as  the 22-year old Cuban, is hitting .309 with eight home runs and 11 steals.

While both guys seem to be on the fast-track to the big leagues, this situation seems to favor Pederson.

Then again, with a guy like Ned Colletti running the show, there’s no guarantee that conventional wisdom plays a role in the ultimate decision as we might just see a guy like Skip Schumaker fill in.

So what do you think, if Kemp heads to the DL, who do you want to see?

Staff Writer

Staff Writer features content written by our site editors along with our staff of contributing writers. Thank you for your readership.

4 Comments

  1. I’d like to see someone like Pederson or Puig step in for a bit just to see what they can do. Why not? Yes, we have been playing well that past few games but I still feel like we are still looking for answers. Take a shot and see what one of these guys can bring to the table. I’d rather know if they are the real deal or not just to clear the air rather than throwing Schumaker out there. Just my opinion.

  2. Puig or Pederson would be an upgrade right now I believe with the slumping kemp. Overall I think Ethier is the weakest link in the outfield. Whoever proves to be worthy will eventually fill in for Ethier or an injured player. We need some young new blood in there. Go blue

  3. Bring up one of the young guys. Its tough to decide between Pederson and Puig because I’ve seen Puig play and he is a beast!! On the other hand, Pederson is just as good, plays center, and has been in the farm system for a couple years, so he might be a little more polished. We need SOMETHING to spark this team and were pretty steady in last place, so why not draw a rabbit out of the hat and see what happens? You never know, one of these guys could spark and inspire this team, and maybe be the next Trout or Harper or at least close to them. We need a change, and we need it asap!!!

  4. Puig is the better option for many reasons.

    1) Strikes out far less.
    2) higher ceiling
    3) already on 40 man roster

    Pederson might be attractive, but of the 2 he’s more likley to get traded in July. That said, let him shine in AA, rather than risk him tanking in Majors and hurting his trade value.

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