Los Angeles Dodgers Dave Roberts does not have an easy task filling out his roster for the 2020 Wild Card Series against the Milwaukee Brewers and beyond if they advance in the postseason.
Much like the regular season, the Dodgers will be able to have 28 active players throughout the playoffs. Roberts has already revealed that the plan is to carry 12 or 13 pitches in the first round, which leaves room for a couple of extra position players.
One of the biggest question marks for L.A. is if one of those spots will go to outfielder Terrance Gore, who is one of the fastest players in the league but doesn’t bring much else to the table.
The Dodgers signed Gore to a Minor League contract this offseason and he made their 60-man player pool after the time off due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. He was called up a few games into the season but only appeared in two games as a pinch-runner and defensive replacement before being designated for assignment.
To no surprise, Gore cleared waivers and spent the rest of the season at the Dodgers’ alternate training site staying ready in case he is called upon in the postseason.
As the Dodgers get ready to complete their 28-man roster, it appears a spot will be going to Gore. “There’s a good chance,” Roberts said. “I don’t know when it’s supposed to be official, but I like what Terrance is doing.”
Gore’s best value to the Dodgers in the regular season was as a pinch-runner in extra innings due to the rule that puts a man on second base. That won’t be in place for the postseason, but Gore can still be utilized for his speed in key situations.
The 29-year-old has appeared in nine postseason games in his career, but he only has two plate appearances compared to five stolen bases. It is unlikely that the Dodgers will need to use all 28 players in their three-game series against the Brewers, so it makes sense to carry someone like Gore who brings the element of speed to the table, which no one else on the roster does.
Roberts anticipates May, Gonsolin and Urias making roster
In addition to Gore, Roberts already revealed young pitchers Dustin May, Tony Gonsolin and Julio Urias have all made the Wild Card Series roster as well.
Whether they are utilized as starters or relievers remains to be seen, but all three had outstanding regular seasons and are worthy of making the postseason roster.
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