Los Angeles Dodgers Yasiel Puig Rebuilding His Value
By David Hill
Yasiel Puig has roughly the same value around the game as a 1971 Ford Pinto. Could a strong September help the former All Star regain some value and make him a viable commodity?
At the trade deadline, the Los Angeles Dodgers could not give Yasiel Puig away. He had become persona non grata on the team, barely performing at a replacement level and having continual lapses in the field. Demoted to the minors, Puig furthered the discord between him and the Dodgers by posting videos of he and his teammates partying. It is not a surprise that they attempted to unload him before rosters expanded.
However, as a trade was unable to take place, he was brought back to Los Angeles. Since his return, Puig has been on a tear, with two home runs and three walks in his 14 plate appearances heading into today’s action. Yes, it is a small sample size, but this streak shows some promise that he could be back to being a productive player.
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The question is – will that productivity be with the Los Angeles Dodgers or with another team? Puig has started to take some responsibility for his actions, showing signs of maturity. If his work ethic continues to improve, and he continues to make these strides on and off the field, Puig could regain some of his previous value.
Coupled with his hot streak, Puig is starting to see his value increase. A solid month to close out the season, as well as a good showing in any potential postseason run, could bring his stock back to the point where the Dodgers could get a significant return. As intriguing as the Puig for Ryan Bruan rumors had been, adding another outfielder to a team that already has a glut of outfielders was not an ideal option.
However, this offseason, should Puig continue his excellent performance during September, the Dodgers could have plenty of options. At only 26 years of age next season, Puig can still entice with his blend of power and speed, as well as his excellent arm. A focused, committed Yasiel Puig could be an asset for any ballclub; he just needs to show that he has matured into that player.
Next: Saturday intrigue in the postseason chase
Yasiel Puig is giving the Los Angeles Dodgers a spark during their quest for the postseason. If this continues, he may have built his value back to the point where, if they explore a trade this offseason, he could bring back a significant return.