Dodgers: Five players who will improve the most in 2018

4. Tom Koehler

This one may be cheating a little, as Tom Koehler is yet to make any sort of appearance for the Los Angeles Dodgers. The Dodgers just recently signed Koehler to a contract to work out of the bullpen in 2018. At a glance, this signing seems minuscule as Koehler’s past performances are not the most appealing.

However, considering Koehler’s work out of the bullpen and Andrew Friedman’s ability to re-invent guys in the bullpen, this move will prove to be a significant one as the season progresses.

Koehler’s career as a starting pitcher never really took off. His best season was in 2014 when he posted a 3.81 ERA. Last season, in 12 games started for the Marlins, Koehler held a disastrous 7.92 ERA. However, when he joined the Toronto Blue Jays as a member of the bullpen, Koehler thrived with a 2.65 ERA in 17 innings.

Small sample size, yes, but with all things considered that is exactly what the Dodgers need. The Dodgers are the best at turning failed starters into great relievers in their system. They did it with Joe Blanton in 2016 and Brandon Morrow in 2017. Often times, when these guys leave, they never perform at the same wavelength.

Thus, it is safe to say that Rick Honeycutt will get the most out of Tom Koehler by emphasizing his best stuff. With Dave Roberts putting Koehler in the right matchups, he may become the surprise player of 2018; much like those before him.