The Los Angeles Dodgers will hold their first workout of 2023 Spring Training on Thursday, February 16, when pitchers and catchers report to Camelback Ranch. The team’s first full-squad workout will take place four days later.
In the meantime, several players have already begun getting some reps in at Dodger Stadium. On Wednesday, Jason Heyward, Gavin Lux, Chris Taylor and Trayce Thompson took batting practice and worked on their fielding.
All four players have something to prove this spring. Heyward signed a Minor League contract and will be looking to crack the Dodgers’ Opening Day roster after a disappointing end to his tenure with the Chicago Cubs.
As for Lux, he figures to be in the mix for the Dodgers’ starting shortstop job, with his chances tied to the health and play of Miguel Rojas. Taylor and Thompson are candidates to replace Cody Bellinger as the primary center fielder, along with Heyward.
Hustle hard. pic.twitter.com/Q8yp0Ib2ju
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) January 19, 2023
No. 9 putting in work. pic.twitter.com/geUWyD24zA
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) January 18, 2023
Getting ready. pic.twitter.com/D6OR6yBWxS
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) January 18, 2023
Heyward has been working out with Dodgers hitting coaches Robert Van Scoyoc and Aaron Bates since the start of the year as he looks to bounce back at the plate.
The veteran outfielder hinted that he joined L.A. because of their reputation for helping players get back on track, and believes he can revitalize his career with the organization.
Freddie Freeman believes Jason Heyward has a lot left to offer for Dodgers
Heyward signing with the Dodgers reunited him with Freddie Freeman, who spent five seasons together on the Atlanta Braves. Freeman thinks Heyward still has a lot to offer offensively.
“I’ve known him since I was 16 years old. I know what’s in there, I know he’s got a lot to prove. He’s got a little chip on his shoulder. I know he wants to come in and compete for a job,” Freeman said of Heyward.
“I hit with him [last Thursday], and it’s a very nice sound coming off the bat. He looks really good. He made some adjustments in his swing, his hands are a lot more quiet, and I think he’s going to be able to get to the ball a lot easier.
“He just looks so relaxed and comfortable with the adjustments he made. I’m hoping for a big spring from him and he gets on our team.”
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