Showcasing Talent

Due to Brett Anderson's back surgery and Hyun-Jin Ryu's sore shoulder, the Dodgers may be in need of starting pitching before the season ever begins. The Dodgers may showcase some of their expendable talent early in spring training games and open up the possibility of a trade. Alex Guerrero and Trayce Thompson meet that criteria. Guerrero would be a perfect fit for an American League because he has not really found a defensive position with the Dodgers. He is a natural infielder but the Dodgers have been trying to make an outfielder out of him. He has some power as demonstrated by his 11 homeruns in only 219 at bats last season and his contract guarantees him a roster spot. His plate appearances may be limited with the Dodgers.

Trayce Thompson was acquired in a trade with the White Sox at the winter meetings. Unless some injuries occur, his at bats may be limited with the Dodgers. He did bat .295 with 5 homeruns and 16 RBI's over the last couple of months of last season with the White Sox and can play all three outfield positions. Thompson also only has one minor league option left and with the Dodgers glut of outfielders, he is a prime candidate to be traded.

Guerrero went two for three in the spring training opener with a long homerun off White Sox starter Jordan Danks and a double. Guerrero played third base in this game. Thompson was hitless in three at bats and played centerfield.