While Yasiel Puig has been no stranger to the spotlight and criticism during his young career with the Los Angeles Dodgers, last season was a new low for the dynamic right fielder.
In late April Puig was placed on the disabled list for the first time in his career. He didn’t return from a hamstring strain until June 6.
Puig found himself back on the disabled list in late August, and only managed to play in the final two games of the regular season.
All told, Puig was limited to a career-low 79 games. He hit .255/.322/.436 with 11 home runs, 12 doubles, 38 RBIs, a .328 woBA, 111 wRC+, 66 strikeouts and 26 walks in 311 plate appearances.
During the general manager meetings Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman stated he believed Puig would benefit from altering his physique to put him in better position to withstand the demands of a full season.
According to David Vassegh of AM 570, Friedman is pleased with Puig’s efforts thus far:
Andrew Friedman said he is happy with the progress Puig is making to be better prepared to play at least 150 games in 2016
— David Vassegh (@THEREAL_DV) December 7, 2015
The bit of positive news comes as Puig remains under investigation by Major League Baseball for his role in a fight outside a Miami bar.
He is one of three players — along with Colorado Rockies shortstop Jose Reyes and recent addition, Cincinnati Reds closer Aroldis Chapman — who are being investigated under the league’s overhauled domestic violence policy.
Friedman expressed confidence last week the Dodgers can achieve success with Puig on the roster. First baseman Adrian Gonzalez believes new manager Dave Roberts possesses the necessary people-skills and personality to connect with Puig.
Prior to the incident in Miami, it was reported team’s ownership group has grown more open to trading the Cuban native. The Dodgers were said to have fielded trade calls just over one week after Puig’s scuffle.
Puig, who turned 25 years old on Monday, is under team control for the next four seasons. He’s scheduled to participate in MLB’s goodwill tour of Cuba with Clayton Kershaw and other Major Leaguers later this month.
