In a bold trade, the Los Angeles Dodgers sent Noah Syndergaard packing and acquired shortstop Amed Rosario from the Cleveland Guardians. The deal adds a new dimension to the Dodgers' lineup and provides options for Manager Dave Roberts to explore.
Rosario joined the Dodgers with a .267 batting average, 3 home runs, and a .680 OPS this season. While his defensive performance at shortstop has been underwhelming in 2023, the Dodgers plan to ease him into playing different positions, including second base and center field. This versatility is seen as an opportunity to maximize Rosario's talents and impact the game from various angles, a staple for the LA squad.
Manager Dave Roberts stated that the primary reason for acquiring Rosario was to bolster the Dodgers' lineup against left-handed pitchers. The 27-year-old has been impressive against southpaw pitchers this season, boasting a .304 average and a .482 slugging percentage.
General Manager Brandon Gomes expressed confidence in Rosario's abilities and the likelihood of him returning to being a solid defender at shortstop and all around the field.
“He’s a tremendous athlete. He did grade out really well (defensively) last year. So it’s a bet on his true talent, our coaching staff getting with him. He’s been incredibly open to saying, ‘Hey, I’m willing to come in and help you guys any way possible.’ So seeing how he first in on the infield, some in the outfield just gives us options, which we like.”
In his debut as a Dodger, Rosario showed off just why the club traded for him, going 2-4 with an RBI double. He also looked solid with the glove in his debut.
The trade represents a calculated gamble by the Dodgers, hoping that Rosario's versatility and batting prowess will add depth and options to their lineup, making them an even more formidable force in the league.
For the Dodgers, the trade also marks the end of a disappointing season for Noah Syndergaard. In 12 games with the team, he struggled to find his rhythm, resulting in a high 7.16 ERA. Syndergaard will now have a fresh start with the Cleveland Guardians, where he is set to make his debut on Monday.
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