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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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Mar 7, 2017; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers right fielder Franklin Gutierrez (28) bats against the San Francisco Giants during the first inning at Camelback Ranch. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports /

Franklin Gutierrez:

When Franklin Gutierrez signed with the Dodgers on February 10th, I was very confused. The signing indicated to me, that the team wasn’t confident Trayce Thompson would be healthy enough to start the year.

Gutierrez had played for the Seattle Mariners since 2005 and didn’t attract much attention this offseason. The Dodgers picked him up on a 1-year, 2.6 million dollar deal as a platoon project.

In the last two years, Franklin has been solid offensive player vs left-handers. Last year, 12 of his 14 home runs came against southpaws. He may not be a defensive wizard but he can be a decent platoon guy and the Dodgers can use some production against lefties.

Despite a slow start to the spring, Gutierrez adds good depth to a Dodgers team that is filled with platoon guys. He was given the contract to see what he can do, and most likely starts the year with LA. Whenever a lefty is slated to pitch, go ahead and pencil in Gutierrez for the start. Having an overcrowded outfield also means that Gutierrez is gone if he struggles.

Verdict: Gutierrez starts the year in a platoon role. He will have a short leash and at the first sign of trouble will be replaced.

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