Even with injuries to Andre Ethier and Scott Van Slyke, juggling the Los Angeles Dodgers’ crop of outfielders is far from easy task for manager Dave Roberts. It’s become particularly problematic with Trayce Thompson’s recent emergence.
Thompson spent the first few weeks of the season platooning with Joc Pederson in center field. That was despite Roberts explaining why the duo didn’t form a platoon in the literal sense of the word.
In recent games Thompson, a dynamic 25-year-old athlete, has started even with a right-hander on the mound. “I like the matchup,” has become a frequent statement heard from Roberts. On Monday, Thompson found himself starting in right field for just the fourth time this season.
He proceeded to hit two home runs — a solo shot, followed by a two-run shot — in the Dodgers’ loss. The multi-home run game was the first of Thompson’s young career, and further added to his case to become an everyday outfielder.
“Trayce is doing a lot of good things, he’s definitely deserving of more playing time,” Roberts said after the loss. “Obviously, I know what kind of player he is, and he has a bright future. This game is performance-based, so there’s definitely more playing time for Trayce.”
Prior to his current hot streak, Roberts said he was inclined to find Thompson regular playing time. Thompson is batting .292/.338/.611 with five doubles, six home runs, 17 RBIs, a .401 wOBA and 153 wRC+ in 77 plate appearances over 30 games (17 starts). He’s tied with Joc Pederson and Corey Seager for the team lead in home runs.
His splits against right-handed pitchers and lefties are just about even — .289/.357/.605 against same-side pitching, and .294/.314/.618 off left-handers. Moreover, Thompson has logged 42 plate appearances against righties, and 35 plate appearances against lefties.
When asked if Thompson would be in Tuesday’s lineup, Roberts answered, “in left field,” with a smile.
