Yasiel Puig Could End Up Helping Dodgers to the Playoffs

Jun 19, 2013; Bronx, NY, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers right fielder Yasiel Puig (66) hits a solo home run against the New York Yankees during the seventh inning of the second game of a doubleheader at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

Some refer to it as “Puig-Mania”, others just sit back and watch in awe of something that they thought they might never see. There’s no doubt that something special is brewing in Los Angeles. In fact, things are being done that have never done before. Much like we have been seeing with Manny Machado over in Baltimore, Yasiel Puig is quickly making a name for himself as one of the league’s most exciting young stars.

The Dodgers haven’t playing their best baseball this year, so a “pick-me-up” was desperately needed during their worst stretch. Coach Don Mattingly knew that when he called Puig up, they were going to see something special. Now, it’s not a matter of if he is special—instead, how entertaining can one young player be?

In a recent brief two game series versus the Yankees, Puig took his talents to the Bronx for the world to see on a national stage. To say he didn’t disappoint would be a huge understatement. He notched four hits and accounted for four of the Dodgers’ runs. Puig launched a solo shot in game two to help LA defeat the Yankees 6-0.

The 22-year old from Cuba is showing fans that he is the real deal, making some want to put him on the All-Star ballot. While it’s a little early to declare him an all-star, Puig has put up the stats to prove he is deserving of being in the conversation to some extent.

Multiple games have been changed by the 6’3” outfielder with his .625 batting average with runners in scoring position. He has nine RBI’s in these spots and three homers.

We have to be careful to not jump to conclusions too fast, however. The truth is, his time in the majors has been short and this could just be a timely thing. On tape, Puig is the real deal. Can he continue his hot streak?