Among the most competitive positional battles for the Los Angeles Dodgers during Spring Training has come in left field, where upwards of six different players were vying for playing time and a spot on the Opening Day roster.
One player that’s conceivably still in the mix is Trayce Thompson, who’s looking to return to form after a complicated back injury sabotaged his 2017 season. Thus far in Cactus League play, he has swung the bat well despite not hitting for much power.
Thompson is batting .306/.324/.444 with two doubles, one home run and two RBI in 36 at-bats across 15 games. Nevertheless, the 2009 second-round draft pick is aware that he could be one of the odd men out when roster cuts are complete.
But whether it’s with the Dodgers or another club, Thompson believes he’s deserving of another Major League opportunity, via Bill Shaikin of the L.A. Times:
“I’m 27 years old,” Thompson said. “It’s time for me to get a shot in the big leagues.”
Thompson showed flashes of his potential as a member of the Chicago White Sox in 2015 and first season with the Dodgers in 2016. But given the club’s loaded depth in the outfield, playing time may be difficult to find.
Should Thompson unsuccessfully make the Dodgers’ Opening Day roster, he’ll need to be exposed to waivers, where he’ll then have to clear and accept an outright assignment to the Minors in order remain in the organization.
The Dodgers reportedly will make Thompson available in trade talks, which may be indication that he’s not long for the club’s plans.
