Gavin Lux was poised to be the Los Angeles Dodgers’ everyday shortstop this past season, but those plans changed when he sustained a torn ACL and LCL in his right knee early in Spring Training.
Lux underwent surgery that sidelined him the entire year. It resulted in the Dodgers turning to Miguel Rojas as their everyday shortstop, who originally planned to be a super utility man off the bench.
The team initially left the door open for Lux to return late in 2023, but he never made it back. The 26-year-old nevertheless steadily checked off boxes with the rehab process and is on track to make a full recovery in time for Opening Day of the 2024 season.
Dodgers general manager Brandon Gomes said the team anticipates Lux returning to form next year, per Jack Harris of the L.A. Times:
“I think Gavin has done an amazing job of handling his rehab,” Gomes said. “We’ll bet on his makeup and desire to get back and perform at a very high level.”
Lux received his first significant opportunity during the 2022 season when he appeared in 129 games and batted a solid .276/.346/.399 with 33 extra-base hits while appearing at three different positions.
Lux is now slated to play shortstop on a daily basis for the first time in his career. He was drafted as a shortstop but has spent the bulk of his Major League career at second base (169 games).
Even with the Dodgers expecting to rely on Lux at shortstop, Rojas figures to again see time at the position as well.
Despite their confidence in Lux, the Dodgers have also reportedly maintained interest in a trade with the Milwaukee Brewers for shortstop Willy Adames, who would provide the team with a much-needed right-handed bat.
If they go that route, Lux would likely move back over to second base, but as of now, he is primed to see nearly all his playing time at shortstop.
Gavin Lux among Dodgers tendered contracts
The Dodgers tendered a contract to each of their 12 players who are eligible for salary arbitration. The group is comprised of Lux, Yency Almonte, Walker Buehler, Caleb Ferguson, J.P. Feyereisen, Victor González, Brusdar Graterol, Dustin May, Evan Phillips, Will Smith, Alex Vesia and Ryan Yarbrough.
Wander Suero gave the Dodgers an initial 13 players who were eligible for salary arbitration, but he elected free agency.
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