Dodgers Rumors: Low-Cost Trade Options to Hit Left-Handed Pitching
By Jason Reed
Brandon Guyer – OF
The Dodgers may already have a surplus of outfielders at the big league level, but they would be very unwise to not acquire a guy like Guyer if the opportunity presents itself. With the return of the injured Michael Brantley the Indians have too many cooks in the outfield kitchen, leaving Guyer to minimal contributions. Heck, he has only had 19 at-bats this season.
Guyer would be an extremely beneficial platoon partner in left field for Andrew Toles while Franklin Gutierrez is hurt, and could likely play all three outfield spots if needed. Guyer thrives against left-handed pitching, last season batting .333 against south paws.
In 152 plate appearances against south paw pitching last season Guyer racked up 41 hits, six of which were home runs, scoring 24 runs and driving in 17. He walked 9 times and managed to get hit by a pitch an outstanding 20 times. It may not be pretty, but he is getting on base and that is exactly what the Dodgers need.
The great part about this deal for the Dodgers as well is they are avoiding a massive contract, and could hold onto Guyer throughout the 2019 season if they exercise the club option. Guyer is owed $2.0 million dollars in 2017, $2.75 million in 2018, and if they keep him $3.0 million in 2019.
The Dodgers would likely only need to give up a supplemental big league talent, such as Chris Taylor and a very low-rated prospect, or cash, to obtain Guyer.