One of the biggest question marks for the Los Angeles Dodgers heading into Spring Training this year was who would win the second base job, with Kiké Hernandez and Chris Taylor factoring most prominently in an open competition.
Both are extremely versatile and have the ability to play all across the diamond, so regardless of who assumed which role, Hernandez and Taylor are expected to essentially be everyday players in 2019.
Hernandez came out this spring with a purpose though, leading the team in many offensive categories. Because of that, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts revealed on Saturday that he will begin the season as the team’s second baseman while Taylor will play a utility role, via Bill Plunkett of the Southern California News Group:
#Dodgers Dave Roberts confirmed what had become obvious — Kike' Hernandez will be the primary 2B. Chris Taylor will be the utilityman, moving around between 2B, LF with occasional SS or CF
— Bill Plunkett (@billplunkettocr) March 23, 2019
In 19 games this spring, Hernandez hit .300/.368/.540 with three doubles, three home runs and 11 RBI. Given his ability to play Gold Glove-caliber at just about every position, it would not be a surprise to see him move around a little bit this season as well.
Taylor struggled at the plate in Cactus League play, batting just .180/.241/.320 with four doubles, a home run and seven RBI in 17 games going into play Saturday. He did hit a leadoff home run against the Chicago White Sox in the Cactus League finale.
Joc Pederson is expected to be the team’s starting left fielder against right-handed pitching, but he has struggled against southpaws throughout the course of his career so Taylor will likely platoon with him and start in left against lefties.
Coming off two surgeries, Dodgers shortstop Corey Seager will also require regular off-days the first couple months of the year. Taylor would be the primary candidate to fill in for him as well.
