The Los Angeles Dodgers were on the cusp of a World Series victory in 2017. Now, the organization has some offseason work to do and it starts withLorenzo Cain.
The 2017 World Series was heartbreaking for theLos Angeles Dodgers. Now, the team must look ahead and look to replicate what the 2014-2015 Kansas City Royals did. Kansas City lost the 2014 World Series in seven games as well before returning in 2015 to win in five. To do so, the Dodgers must improve, and a key target is a member of that 2014-2015 Royals’ team.
While the Dodgers still are one of the most talented teams heading into next season, some additions need to be made. Los Angeles needs to sign a viable number two starter behindClayton Kershaw, and realistically should add one more dangerous right-handed bat in the middle of the order.
While the Dodgers do have players such asEnrique HernandezandLogan Forsytheto hit left-handed pitching, they lack that everyday dynamic right-handed hitting bat outside ofJustin Turner.Chris Taylorcaught fire last year, but his spot at the leadoff limits him.Yasiel Puigis too inconsistent. Realistically, one more right-handed bat is ideal.
As alluded to earlier, that perfect right-handed bat to pursue is none other than former Royals’ outfielderLorenzo Cain. The one-time all-star and third place 2015 MVP is the perfect puzzle piece for the Dodgers to storm back into the Fall Classic.
Cain has been one of the most consistent bats for the Kansas City Royals the last four seasons. Last season, Cain batted .300 with 175 hits, 15 home runs, 86 runs scored and 26 stolen bases. As great as Taylor was in the leadoff spot, he may be better suited to hit fifth behindCody Bellinger.
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Thus, the Dodgers can move Cain to the leadoff spot; getting the exact same mix of power and speed that they do from Taylor. Not only that, Cain is a more consistent option atop the lineup and makes the Dodgers’ outfield one of the best defensively.
Los Angeles can take two paths with Cain. First, they could start him in left field, with Taylor in center. Ideally, though, the Dodgers would want Cain to start in center due to his natural fielding ability, moving the versatile Taylor to left field.
Or the Dodgers can move Taylor back to the infield. Los Angeles could start Taylor at second base ahead ofLogan Forsytheagainst right-handers, starting Forsythe against left-handers. Then, Taylor can play left field against left-handers whileJoc PedersonorAndrew Tolescan play against right-handers.
Not only does adding Cain sum up the offensive efforts for the Dodgers, he also fixes the platoon at second base. WithChase Utleylikely riding off into the sunset, the Dodgers need another guy to play second. The team would then have the flexibility to play either Taylor or Hernandez at second in place of Forsythe.
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While it would take some lineup maneuvering, adding Lorenzo Cain would be the smartest move for the Los Angeles Dodgers. Cain knows exactly what it takes to win it all, so adding his presence would be huge.
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