Dodgers: 2018 Salary Arbitration Predictions

JOC PEDERSON, OF, 1st Year Arb Eligible

Now, we move into the first year arbitration eligibles. Unlike later year eligibles, the first year arb eligibles entire career to that point are traditionally used when assessing their value.  Joc has had his share of ups and downs, but has flashed potential, and was even an All-Star in his rookie season. In 2017, Joc hit .212 in 102 games, with 11 homers, and a .331 OBP.  Joc’s defense did not rank as favorable as in his first couple of seasons.  In 2017 he saw Joc ride the low of a minor league demotion and the high of finishing off the year strong in the World Series.  Joc should get a crack at the starting left field job in 2018, especially if Matt Kemp is moved.

COMP:  Lorenzo Cain, Free Agent

Cain’s platform season and prior MLB service till that point are similar to Pederson’s career.  Pederson has flashed more power, but Cain had a higher batting average, and Cain had a much higher WAR.  So, Cain’s first significant raise in 2015, in which he made $2.725 million would be the high point of any Pederson salary discussion.  I see Joc coming in at a lower salary based off of his career stats to this point.

PREDICTION:  $2 million