The Los Angeles Dodgers are relying on several prospects this season and added Gavin Stone to the list on Wednesday for his MLB debut against the Philadelphia Phillies.
Stone becmae the latest Dodgers rookie to make his big league debut after Michael Busch did so against the Pittsburgh Pirates on April 25. Thus, the right-hander also had the honor of wearing the special debut patch on his jersey.
Because of a partnership between MLB, the Players Association (MLBPA), Fanatics Collectibles and Topps, players making their MLB debut during the 2023 season have a commemorative jersey patch on their sleeve, which then is authenticated to be used in upcoming Topps products.
Stone’s debut did not go as well as hoped, and because of a would-be double play ball in the first inning that Max Muncy misplayed, the young right-hander found himself in a mess of trouble. But with the bases loaded and one out, Stone escaped with just one run allowed, receiving a nod of approval from Dodgers manager Dave Roberts.
“It was good. As a manager, you watch how guys react to things out of their control,” Roberts said. “He handled it like a pro. That’s a play Max will make 99% of the time. He didn’t come up with it, but Gavin kept us in the ballgame that inning.”
An experienced Phillies lineup forced Stone out of the game after four innings. He gave up five runs (four earned) on eight hits, notching his first career strikeout against Nick Castellanos.
Stone needed 77 pitches to complete four frames, and the long at-bats were much in part to his lack of normal command that he otherwise displayed during his rapid rise through the Minor League ranks.
Gavin Stone thankful for family
Although his debut game wasn’t the prettiest, the Dodgers earned a win after an incredible comeback highlighted by a Muncy walk-off grand slam. But Stone called on the love and support of his family, friends, teammates, and all those who made his path to MLB possible.
The 24-year-old is one of the many Dodgers arms who the organization has immense confidence in and looking ahead to the future, the kid from Lake City, Arkansas has a bright career ahead of him.
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