Los Angeles Dodgers Update: Dave Roberts recalls outfielder James Outman to fill in for Jayson Heyward
The Los Angeles Dodgers have recalled outfielder James Outman to the roster following the injury to Jayson Heyward on Thursday. Heyward has been placed on the IL due to a knee contusion, paving the way for Outman to return to the Dodgers' setup.
The news was confirmed after Outman had arrived at Dodger Stadium for the opening encounter of the three-game series with the Milwaukee Brewers. It will be the final series for the Dodgers before the All-Star break.
James Outman enjoyed an excellent 2023 season, finishing third in the National League Rookie of the Year voting. However, he only had a .147/.250/.266 slashline with three home runs during the opening month and a half of the 2024 season. As a result, he was optioned by the Dodgers on May 17.
Outman has been much more productive at the plate since moving to the Triple-A level.
Playing for Oklahoma City in the Pacific Coast League, he has a 279/.393/.531 slashline with nine home runs and an OPS of .924. With Heyward likely to be sidelined for a couple of weeks, Outman will get a decent opportunity to re-establish himself in the Dodgers' lineup.
James Outman to play centerfield during Jayson Heyward's absence, says manager Dave Roberts
Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts told reporters that James Outman will feature mostly at centerfield when he gets on the field.
Andy Pages, the regular centerfielder, will then take on Jayson Heyward's position at right field. Teoscar Hernandez will generally start in that position, with Miguel Vargas playing left field.
The contributions from Outman will be crucial for the Los Angeles Dodgers in forming the strategy for the trade deadline on July 30.
If he produces offensively, like he did in his rookie year, the Dodgers might offer him a regular starting berth. Otherwise, the team will likely look to bring in another outfielder before the end of the month.