The Los Angeles Dodgers plan to be active at the MLB trade deadline, and one player who is surprisingly available is star outfielder Yasiel Puig.
The Cuban defector who was a sensation last season, as well as a lightning rod for controversy, is reportedly available if the acquiring team is prepared to offer up a massive haul.
USA Today’s Bob Nightengale tweeted that Puig would be available “in the right deal,” but that is something the Philadelphia Phillies have also said regarding SP Cole Hamels and closer Jonathan Papelbon, both of who have been available since spring training and failed to move.
2015 has been a disappointment for Puig. He has been injured more than once, and is slashing just .253/.327/.423 with six home runs and only one stolen base. There is also still a logjam in Los Angeles’ outfield, even after shipping Matt Kemp to the San Diego Padres this offseason.
Rookie Joc Pederson is entrenched in center field, while Andre Ethier and Puig are manning the corners. The Dodgers also have Alex Guerrero who needs playing time, and has produced this season, as well as pricy but oft-injured Carl Crawford looking for at-bats. Additionally, Scott Van Slyke who has earned at-bats vs. right-handed pitching.
L.A.’s prospects are still getting more interest from suitors though, particularly shortstop prospect Cory Seager, who is hitting .274 with eight home runs at Triple-A.
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