James Outman Kiyoshi Mio-USA TODAY Sports

Dodgers make series of moves involving notable players

By Matthew Brown | Last updated 5/17/24

The Los Angeles Dodgers made a flurry of roster moves Friday afternoon, including optioning centerfielder James Outman to the minor leagues.

The Dodgers also announced they activated Jason Heyward from the injured list, recalled Miguel Vargas and Ricky Vanasco, optioned Nick Ramirez and placed Max Muncy on the IL with a right oblique strain.

The Dodgers activated OF Jason Heyward from the injured list, recalled OF Miguel Vargas and RHP Ricky Vanasco, optioned OF James Outman and LHP Nick Ramirez and placed IF Max Muncy on the injured list with a right oblique strain.
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) May 17, 2024

Outman has struggled offensively all season, slashing .147/.250/.266 in 36 games. He has a -0.5 WAR, according to Baseball Reference. When Outman does make contact, he only has a 37.7% hard-hit rate, which is in the 39th percentile of all hitters, per Baseball Savant.

As for returning veteran Heyward, the former top prospect had played in only four games this season before going on the IL with lower back tightness. In total, he missed 40 contests. The outfielder hit a respectable .269/.340/.473 with 15 homers and 40 RBI across 334 at-bats with the Dodgers last summer.

While Heyward will be reentering the fray, the Dodgers figure to feel the loss of Muncy's bat in the middle of their lineup, particularly against right-handed pitchers. Muncy has a .846 OPS in 102 at-bats against righties. The Dodgers hope it will only be a 10-day stay on the injured list.

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