James Outman Joins Dodgers For Final Game of Regular Season
The Los Angeles Dodgers recalled outfielder James Outman ahead of the regular season finale against the Colorado Rockies. In a corresponding move, the Dodgers announced they optioned right-hander Justin Wrobleski.
Outman has been called up after Kevin Kiemaier dislocated his finger while sliding to second base during Saturday’s game. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said the trainers popper the finger back into place but said Kiermaier is “day to day,” per Jack Harris of the Los Angeles Times.
Outman returns to the Dodgers for the first time since Aug. 6. Outman began the season with the Dodgers, but was sent back down to the minor leagues after he struggled at the plate. He was brought up to the major leagues again during the summer but sent back to the minors in early August.
Over 52 games with the Dodgers this season, Outman has slashed .148/.253/.267 with 20 hits, 12 runs, four home runs, and 11 RBIs. Outman has played much more effectively in Triple-A, slashing .279/.390/.543 with 74 hits, 62 runs, 17 home runs, and 46 RBIs.
Wrobleski heads back to the minor leagues after two strong appearances for the Dodgers. Wrobleski pitched four innings during Saturday’s game and allowed two hits, two walks, and no earned runs while striking out four. He has struggled overall in the majors this season, going 1-2 with a 5.70 ERA and 26 strikeouts.
The Dodgers’ primary objective is to stay healthy before the start of the postseason. Los Angeles has already locked up the No. 1 seed and home-field advantage in the National League after the Philadelphia Phillies lost to the Washington Nationals on Saturday. With the top seed secured and a first-round bye ahead, the Dodgers don’t really have anything to play for during the season finale.
Along with Kiermaier, first baseman Freddie Freeman has an ankle injury which has kept him out of the Dodgers’ final series against the Rockies. Freeman believes he will be ready for the start of the National League Division Series, which begins next Saturday, Oct. 5.
Photo Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
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The only thing wrong with Outman’s game is his high strike out rate. Kike Hernandez benefited by wearing glasses and was a totally different hitter afterwards. Some of Outman’s wild swings look like he isn’t seeing the ball. Could the answer for him be that simple? Maybe it could be. Whether its contacts or glasses, if it makes him a more productive hitter he needs to see if that is a solution. Some time with the specialist at Driveline couldn’t hurt either… He has too much talent to not have it investigated…
Love Outman’s offensive power and his sterling defense in centerfield. Yay!
Outman is one small adjustment from being back in centerfield and hitting for power and average. I hope he doesn’t ever lose his confidence. He belongs in the Big Leagues. I hope to see him roaming in the outfield again next year. Good luck, and get to work.