Bench pieces: Austin Barnes (C), Scott Van Slyke (1B), Kiké Hernandez (2B), Chris Taylor (SS)
The quartet is somewhat of a projection as to who will be included on the 25-man roster come Opening Day of the 2017 season. Barnes stands as the only no-doubter of the group.
Van Slyke and Hernandez provide the ability to, in theory, hit lefties, while also offering positional flexibility to play infield and outfield. Taylor, on the other hand, is the only option left on the 40-man capable of playing on the left side at the moment (but should expect some competition in camp).
There are still rumblings that the Dodgers are interested in re-signing back Chase Utley, but whether that happens remains to be seen. As it stands, this group will provide solid depth and matchup flexibility for manager Dave Roberts.
Bottom Line
While not the most glamorous group, a lot of the Dodgers’ hopes and dreams rest in the infield. Headlined by Seager and Turner, Grandal, Forsythe and Gonzalez provide backup with steady production that places them in the second tier within their positional group.
Add in the matchup flexibility the Dodgers will have off the bench, and this group (if healthy) won’t be the reason the team loses this season.
Previous articles in State of the Dodgers series, which analyzed the 40-man roster, starting rotation, bullpen and outfield, can be viewed here.
