Dodgers Claim Braves Outfielder Off Waivers

Dodgers Add Michael Siani Off Waivers from Braves

Glove First?

Siani is known for his defense. What is not well-known is that this will be his fourth season in the majors. Before his time with the Braves, he spent time with the St. Louis Cardinals and the Cincinnati Reds. His plate appearances need work, as he has a low walk rate, and his strikeouts are sky-high. His batting average is below .200.

What Role is Available?

Siani has minor league options, and he could be sent down to Oklahoma City. This gives Los Angeles some roster flexibility. However, he could be a bench player and serve as a late-inning defensive replacement or a pinch runner as the situation arises. Justin Dean played a similar role last year in Los Angeles before he was recently claimed off waivers by the San Francisco Giants.

Pieces to an Unfinished Puzzle

What makes this move more intriguing is that the Dodgers have made it known that they are looking for outfield help. What isn’t clear is if they will sign a free agent like Kyle Tucker or trade for a Brendan Donovan or Jake Meyers. It’s anybody’s guess at this point. There is also the Teoscar trade talk to consider. Teoscar Hernández had a down year offensively and defensively. However, teams such as the Kansas City Royals are said to be interested. For the record, the Dodgers say that trading the corner outfielder is “unlikely.”

It was said that Edwin Díaz was unlikely to sign with Los Angeles. But he is wearing a Dodgers uniform today, so there may be another shoe to drop.