In part tied to acquiring Josh Reddick from the Oakland Athletics, the Los Angeles Dodgers attempted to trade Yasiel Puig prior to Monday’s non-waiver deadline. They were unsuccessful and as a result, sent the enigmatic outfielder to the Minors.
The demotion is said to have to do with Puig’s inconsistency at the plate and off-the-field behavioral issues. He’s expected to report to Triple-A Oklahoma City when that will occur remains unknown at present time.
Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman expressed optimism a stint in the Minors will suit Puig well and aid the efforts to iron out kinks in his swing.
It nonetheless is widely believed Los Angeles remains interested in trading Puig. In order for that to transpire, the club will have to place him on waivers.
According to ESPN’s Jim Bowden, the Atlanta Braves would consider claiming Puig off waivers if he’s made available:
According to a source, if the Atlanta Braves still have the worst record in the league when he’s put through waivers, don’t be surprised if they claim him and try to get him for a mid-level pitching prospect.
Sending Puig to Atlanta would reunite him with former teammate Matt Kemp, who was bumped out of right field because of Puig’s presence; much to Kemp’s chagrin. Kemp recently said being in Atlanta is the first time he’s played in a ‘baseball town.’
Prior to the non-waiver deadline the Dodgers reportedly were in talks with the Chicago White Sox, presumably to acquire a starting pitcher or reliever, and it was said the White Sox wanted Puig in any potential trade.
To his credit, Puig continued to play strong defense in right field even as he went through slumps at the plate. On the year he’s batting .260/.320/.386 with seven home runs and 32 RBIs in 81 games.
Puig’s .706 on-base-plus-slugging percentage is on track for a career-low mark. However, the 25-year-old hit .308/.390/.440 since being reinstated from the disabled list in June.
