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Predicting the Dodgers 25 Man Roster

By Daniel Beattie

Mar 31, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts (30) talks with catcher A.J. Ellis (17) and second baseman Chase Utley (26) during a pitching change in the fourth inning against the Los Angeles Angels at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 31, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts (30) talks with catcher A.J. Ellis (17) and second baseman Chase Utley (26) during a pitching change in the fourth inning against the Los Angeles Angels at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports /
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Aug 6, 2015; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers left fielder Scott Van Slyke (33) and shortstop Enrique Hernandez (14) rest on the dugout steps during a game against the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park. The Dodgers won 10-8. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 6, 2015; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers left fielder Scott Van Slyke (33) and shortstop Enrique Hernandez (14) rest on the dugout steps during a game against the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park. The Dodgers won 10-8. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports /

The Bench

Chase Utley INF – The threat of suspension never eventuated for Utley and the Dodgers re-signed the veteran infielder to provide some depth off the bench this year. His defense at both second and third have passed the eye test so far this spring and hopefully being another year removed from some knee problems will help bring some life back to his bat.

Scott Van Slyke OF– After popping up in nearly 20% of his at bats last year, seeing the sizeable outfielder pop out with runners in scoring position may lead me to pull all my hair out. Van Slyke however, owns a career 142 wRC+ with the platoon advantage.

AJ Ellis C – If it weren’t for Ellis’ relationship with Kershaw then I would be more than a little tempted to cut Ellis given the presence of Austin Barnes. However, Ellis isn’t that far removed from being one of the better catchers in the NL so a return to form at the plate could be a big boost for the Dodgers off the bench.

Austin Barnes C/INF – Acquired in the Dee Gordon trade last off-season, Barnes has done nothing but hit in the minors. He has continued to hit this Spring and signs of some power are starting to emerge. Barnes is also regarded as an elite pitch framer. Barnes is more than a one trick pony however also representing an option at 2nd and 3rd.

Enrique Hernandez INF/OF – The Dodgers super utility, expect to see Hernandez in the lineup in some capacity most days. Hernandez crushed lefties to the tune of a ridiculous 234 wRC+ in 2015. Expect that figure to regress some but its clear that Hernandez can flat out rake against lefties.

Next: The Bullpen

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