Los Angeles Dodgers pitchers and catchers reported to Camelback Ranch on Tuesday morning for the start of 2018 Spring Training.
Coming off a heartbreaking loss in Game 7 of the World Series, the Dodgers return most of its core from a year ago as they attempt to work their way back to the Fall Classic. The team is projected to win 99 games this season and claim a sixth consecutive National League West title.
While position players aren’t required to report to Camelback Ranch until Sunday, Feb. 18, many have already checked in. Per Alanna Rizzo of Spectrum SportsNet LA, the likes of Justin Turner and Matt Kemp, among others, have already arrived in Glendale, Ariz.:
.@redturn2, @kikehndez, @yungjoc650, Forsythe, @TheRealMattKemp, @robsegedin25, among the position players already in camp. #DodgersST, not required yet to report.
— Alanna Rizzo (@alannarizzo) February 13, 2018
A surprising trade with the Atlanta Braves earlier this offseason saw the return of Kemp, who was previously with the organization from 2006-14.
According to Rizzo, an additional half-dozen Dodgers position players have also reported to camp as well. The list extends to 2017 National League Rookie of the Year Cody Bellinger, Yasiel Puig and Chris Taylor:
.@Cody_Bellinger, @kFarm17 & @YasielPuig are also here. #PositionPlayers #DodgersST
— Alanna Rizzo (@alannarizzo) February 13, 2018
Chris Taylor also reported early. #PositionPlayers #DodgerST
— Alanna Rizzo (@alannarizzo) February 13, 2018
Andrew Toles is here too. #PositionPlayers #DodgersST
— Alanna Rizzo (@alannarizzo) February 13, 2018
Bellinger, coming off a historic rookie season that resulted in 39 home runs, added 15 pounds of muscle this offseason. Manager Dave Roberts praised him for emphasizing proper nutrition and believes Bellinger will be able to sustain a full season of action.
What’s more, there is a locker in place for free-agent Chase Utley, who is reportedly in serious talks to re-sign with the club. Assuming a deal is reached soon, the veteran will be able to participate in the Dodgers’ first full-squad workout, scheduled for Monday, Feb. 19.
