Dodgers: 2018 Salary Arbitration Predictions

LUIS AVILAN, LH Relief Pitcher, 2nd Year Arb Eligible

Avilan has served as a steady groundball-inducing specialist out of the LA pen the last couple of years.  In 2017, Avilan pitched to a 2.93 ERA, 1.391 WHIP in 61 games, with only 46 innings pitched, underscoring the fact he served as more of a situational lefty this past season. Barring any unforeseen moves, Avilan, along with Cingrani, should serve as the Dodgers primary LH relievers in 2018.

COMP:  Antonio Bastardo, Free Agent

Bastardo’s platform season in 2014 is similar to Avilan’s platform season.  Bastardo posted a higher ERA at 3.94, a lower WHIP of 1.203, and had 81 Ks over 64 innings. For his efforts, he received a $3.1 million contract up from the $2 million he made the previous season.  Avilan earned $1.5 million last season. Looking at Bastardo’s $1.1 million raise after his platform season, I’d say it is fair to forecast the same for Avilan.

PREDICTION:  $2.6 million