Dodgers Rumors: Three Last Minute Moves to Make

Promote Andrew Toles to Starting LF

Before the injury to Andre Ethier, it was expected that Joc Pederson would start in center, Yasiel Puig in right, and Andre Ethier in left. Franklin Gutierrez and Andrew Toles would serve as platoon players in the corners, leaving Trayce to back up Joc Pederson. Quite frankly, I think this is a waste of Toles’ talents, they might as well trade him.

However, Dodgers fans don’t want to see Toles go. He surprised us all last season with his great play down the stretch, and that should show the Dave Roberts something heading into opening day.

I have nothing wrong with the platoon, however being the left-hander over in right field is going to result in Toles not receiving much playing time. Yasiel Puig will likely start every game lefties, and start the majority of games against right-handers as he does not struggle too badly in that department.

Realistically, Franklin Gutierrez is another option for left field, however, Toles seems much more qualified than Gutierrez and heck even more that Ethier if he was healthy. I think the smartest move is to move Ethier back to right where he can platoon there behind Puig, and allow Toles full range in left field.

Of course, Gutierrez will likely start against left-handed pitching, but Toles gives the Dodgers that dynamic speed, leadoff option that they so lack. Moving Logan Forsythe to the second slot in the line-up, with Seager batting third, Turner fourth, and Gonzalez fifth seems like a much more well-rounded move.