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Dodgers: Solving the Left Field Starting Job Question

By Anthony Perez

October 17, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers right fielder Andre Ethier (16), right fielder Andrew Toles (60) and relief pitcher Pedro Baez (52) during workouts before game three of the NLCS at Dodgers Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
October 17, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers right fielder Andre Ethier (16), right fielder Andrew Toles (60) and relief pitcher Pedro Baez (52) during workouts before game three of the NLCS at Dodgers Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jul 15, 2016; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers left fielder Scott Van Slyke (33) blows a bubble after striking out during the sixth inning against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports /

Scott Van Slyke:

Van Slyke dealt with a wrist injury for a majority of last year. He was shut down in August, after deciding he needed surgery and has been nursing the injury since. Despite what looks to be the start of a strong spring, Van Slyke may still find himself in Oklahoma as well.

In a situation similar to Andrew Toles, Van Slyke has an option on his contract and can be sent down to AAA. However, he has a shot at making the roster over Toles because he can back up Adrian Gonzalez at first. We all know Roberts loves versatile players, so being able to play multiple positions may give him a boost.

Still, Van Slyke is probably going to start the season in AAA for a little bit and then find his way back to LA sometime during the year. After hitting .225/.292/.314 last season, Van Slyke can benefit from some at-bats in Oklahoma.

Verdict: Might be able to steal a spot to ensure Gonzalez has a backup, but more than likely is sent down to start the season.

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