Los Angeles Dodgers: 20 bold predictions for the 2018 Dodgers

Predictions 16-18:

Prediction 16: Kenta Maeda will step up for the Dodgers

Kenta Maeda was huge for the Los Angeles Dodgers in his rookie year in 2016; leading the team in innings pitched along the way. However, in 2017, Maeda took more of a backseat role that included multiple injuries, a slow start to the year and being in and out of the Dodgers bullpen.

However, Maeda did excel out of the bullpen for the Dodgers, showing exactly what he is capable of on the biggest stage there is. Maeda proved that with proper rest and pitch count limitations, he can deliver five to six innings of great pitching. I expect that in 2018.

Prediction 17: Yasiel Puig won’t be better, won’t be worse

If there was one player that I would bet on to have the exact same production as they did last year it would be Yasiel Puig. Although Puig’s MLB career has been a rollercoaster, I believe he found his role and purpose in the lineup last season.

Puig will continue to slug home runs, flirting with the 30 home runs clip. His batting average will continue to be good, not great and his fielding will continue to be a huge addition to the Dodgers. As crazy as his past has been, Puig surprisingly enters 2018 with the least amount of question marks above his head.

Prediction 18: Enrique Hernandez will play an even bigger role

Enrique Hernandez played a lot off of the bench for the Los Angeles Dodgers last season due to his extreme versatility to play virtually every position.

Still, Hernandez’ production could have been more than it was. When he was hot, he would slug multiple extra-base hits and home runs in a single game. When he was cold, he could very well strike out in four straight at-bats.

I think that will change in 2018. I see Hernandez taking a much more patient approach in 2018 and his splits against right-handers improving. While he still will be no superstar, Hernandez is only 26 and has a lot more to offer the Los Angeles Dodgers.