The Los Angeles Dodgers have finalized their Opening Day roster for the 2023 season, following the conclusion of their Spring Training campaign last Saturday. Although the team entered the spring with few positional battles, the loss of Gavin Lux to a season-ending right ACL tear and Tony Gonsolin’s left ankle sprain during his run off the field added some unpredictability.
Nevertheless, the Dodgers are confident in their depth and have selected 26 players they believe can help secure a victory against the D-backs at Dodger Stadium on March 30. However, as with any season, the roster will be subject to change over the next six months, with injuries and player performances being key factors that can lead to modifications in the team’s makeup.
The team will look to duplicate its decade-long power play over the rest of the National League, entering the season as favorites to win the pennant.
First Base
After signing a six-year free agent contract in 2022, Freddie Freeman had an outstanding debut season with the Dodgers. He led the league with 199 hits and achieved his career-high batting average of .325 over a full season. Freeman’s performance at first base has been remarkable, and he will undoubtedly remain the Dodgers’ starting first baseman this season.
Second Base
Miguel Vargas struggled in his brief appearance with the Dodgers last year, but he’s expected to take on most of the responsibility at second base this season. During spring training, Vargas had to overcome a hairline fracture in his right pinky finger, but he has shown great improvement at the plate and defensively.
Shortstop
Unfortunately, Gavin Lux suffered a severe injury in a Cactus League game against the Padres, preventing him from playing this season. As a result, the Dodgers acquired Miguel Rojas from the Marlins as a depth piece, and he is expected to play most of the games at shortstop, at least initially.
Third Base
Max Muncy, known for his versatility on the field, will take over as the Dodgers’ everyday third baseman in the 2023 season. After spending time at both second and third last year, Muncy will focus on playing third base this season. With Justin Turner leaving to sign with the Boston Red Sox, Muncy will take the reins at the hot corner and aim for a big bounce-back season at the plate.
Outfielders
David Peralta will likely start in left field, with Trace Thompson in center field against left-handed pitchers. Mookie Betts, a six-time Gold Glove Award winner, will primarily play in right field but may occasionally shift to second base. Chris Taylor will be a versatile option in left and center field.
Jason Heyward and James Outman earned spots on the Opening Day roster with solid performances in spring training. Outman will be the primary center fielder against right-handed pitching, while Heyward will be the fourth outfielder and contribute against righties.
Catchers
Will Smith and Austin Barnes will continue to be one of the strongest catching duos in the National League, with Smith expected to make strides at the plate this season. Barnes will serve as a reliable backup catcher and defensive specialist.
Designated Hitter
Due to his age and a declining defense, J.D. Martinez will be the designated hitter for the Dodgers. Despite a slow spring at the plate, Martinez’s power against left-handed pitching will be a valuable addition to the lineup.
Pitchers
On opening day, Clayton Kershaw, Julio Urías, Noah Syndergaard, Dustin May, and Ryan Pepiot will be the starting pitchers. However, due to Tony Gonsolin’s left ankle sprain, Pepiot will replace him as the No. 5 starter, beating out Michael Grove for the position.
The Dodgers’ bullpen will consist of Brusdar Graterol, Alex Vesia, Caleb Ferguson, Yency Almonte, Evan Phillips, Shelby Miller, Phil Bickford, and Andre Jackson. After an impressive spring, Jackson secured the last bullpen spot and will be the team’s multi-inning reliever to start the season. The Dodgers place a high value on this role, as some of their starters are still building up, and they don’t want to overload their high-leverage relievers early in the season.
