The Los Angeles Dodgers Opening Day roster for the 2023 season had largely began to take shape over recent days, with the exception of Steven Duggar, James Outman, Luke Williams and Bradley Zimmer being in the running for the final position player spot.
Manager Dave Roberts had already indicated non-roster invitee Jason Heyward was poised to make the team, but another opportunity was created when Gavin Lux suffered a season-ending torn ACL and LCL in his right knee.
Some considered Outman the favorite and although Roberts recently acknowledged the outfield prospect was Major League-ready, he cautioned decision-making could produce a different a result.
However, Roberts has now announced Outman will be on the Dodgers Opening Day roster, according to Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic:
James Outman has made the Dodgers Opening Day roster, Dave Roberts said.
— Fabian Ardaya (@FabianArdaya) March 23, 2023
Outman had a historic MLB debut but only appeared in four games for the Dodgers last season. He hit safely in three of those and reached in all four.
Outman began the 2022 season with Double-A Tulsa, where he hit .295/.394/.552 with 17 doubles, one triple, 16 home runs and 45 RBI over 68 games. Upon earning a promotion to Triple-A Oklahoma City, Outman batted .292/.390/.627 with 14 doubles, 15 home runs, 42 runs scored, 61 RBI and a 144 wRC+ in 57 games.
James Outman didn’t focus on Dodgers Opening Day roster
During a recent interview with DodgerBlue.com, the versatile outfielder said he was focused on moving on from last year’s success and looking to improve each day rather than be consumed by possibly making the Opening Day roster.
“I know there’s an opportunity there, but focusing on that is not going to get me to where I want to be,” Outman said. “So I’m just trying to stay present and get better with what I do every day.”
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