The Los Angeles Dodgers have continued to make roster cuts throughout the week, trimming their Spring Training roster by sending nearly 20 players to Minor League camp.
Among the most notable subtractions include top infield prospect Gavin Lux, who struggled at the plate during his time up with the big league club. He appeared in 10 Cactus League games, hitting a weak .150/.190/.300 with a double, a triple and two RBI.
Lux also battled through defensive woes as well, particularly with his throws to first base. He accounted for the Dodgers’ only error in last Saturday’s win over the Seattle Mariners.
However, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts isn’t overly concerned with Lux’s issues on the defensive side and believes he’ll ultimately bounce back for the long-term, via Ken Gurnick of MLB.com:
“Well, I think there’s some things we’re working on cleaning up with Gavin,” said manager Dave Roberts. “It hasn’t been a problem in the past. There’s some footwork things and with the grip that our guys have detected. We’re just going to keep working through it. For Gavin, he’s very confident, very secure in who he is. Every player has challenges. The No. 1 thing for us, we’re here for him and we’ll support him. I’m not making too much of it. Gavin’s going to be fine.”
In three Minor League seasons, Lux has committed a whopping 61 errors in 208 games at the shortstop position. During the 2018 campaign alone, he accrued 27 errors while splitting time with High-A Rancho Cucamonga and Double-A Tulsa.
Many scouts have long anticipated the 21-year-old will eventually transition to second base due to mechanical concerns, but his strong arm offers hope that he’ll be able work out any kinks and potentially stick at shortstop.
