Brian Dozier was impressive in his Los Angeles Dodgers debut
By Kyle Cardoza
The Los Angeles Dodgers finally made a move for second baseman Brian Dozier after having their eyes on him for a few seasons. And he made a mark in his debut Wednesday night.
Dodgers catcher Yasmani Grandal put fans on their feet. And Los Angeles newcomer Brian Dozier kept them on their feet.
Grandal smacked a leadoff home run. Dozier provided an encore, taking a first-pitch fastball deep over the center field fence.
The second baseman earned a standing ovation after he entered the dugout. It provided Dodgers fans with a glimpse of what Dozier could bring to the team.
The second baseman finished 3-for-4 while batting fifth Wednesday night. He was a triple shy of the cycle.
Los Angeles attempted to reel in the infielder multiple times across the past few years. Finally, they had the right cards to acquire the 31-year-old on the last day of the deadline.
Dozier offers much more promise than the Dodgers’ previous options at the position. And with the addition of Manny Machado, Los Angeles wanted to build the best infield in the league.
If all the possible options were healthy, the Dodgers would have one of the most-talented infield crews in a long time. Of course, without Corey Seager and a limping Justin Turner, it’s mostly a dream.
Nevertheless, Dozier’s potential is a reality, and he’s going to attempt to provide a boost for Los Angeles. At this point, they are ultimately the favorites in the National League.
Dozier himself is on a quest to accrue more than 30 home runs for the third-straight season. Thus far, he’s only at 17 on the year. Yet, last year he clocked 17 across the last two months.
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Dodgers fans hope he can bring that bomber-like approach to Southern California.
Los Angeles hasn’t had a strong group of second basemen throughout the past few seasons. Howie Kendrick was the last consistent hitter in the spot.
Though Dozier struggles with keeping his average up, he offers veteran leadership and clutch hitting. And he wants to help the club in a deep postseason run.
Also, there were a scant amount of options not the market at second base.
Dodgers fans will be delighted if he can fill up the box score with similar numbers. And although Dozier is in the midst of the second-worst season in his career based on OPS, a change of scenery might be all he needs to get it going.
Next. Why did Los Angeles get Dozier originally?. dark
If his debut proved anything, it’s that he can succeed while in Los Angeles, whether or not he sticks around. He might end up with his first championship ring too.