Dodgers: Five options if MLB institutes universal designated hitter

AJ Pollock, Los Angeles Dodgers (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
AJ Pollock, Los Angeles Dodgers (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
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Dodgers
DENVER, COLORADO – JUNE 30: Edwin Rios #43 of the Los Angeles Dodgers runs to third base on a Russell Martin single in the sixth inning against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field on June 30, 2019 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images)

Edwin Rios

The designated hitter spot also opens up new opportunities for players who weren’t expected to make the original active roster. Edwin Rios is one of those candidates.

The 26-year-old made his Dodgers debut last season, with all-or-nothing results at the plate. He batted .277 with a .393 on-base percentage and .617 slugging percentage. His four home runs were offset by 21 strikeouts in just 56 plate appearances.

Rios has plenty of power in his bat. For Triple-A Oklahoma City last season, he clobbered 31 home runs. But, as fans caught a glimpse of during his short stint with the Dodgers, he really struggles to make contact. His strikeout rate has hovered above 30 percent in OKC.

The corner infielder was fighting for a roster spot against Matt Beaty. He could become a decent option as a designated hitter this season, as someone who can add punch to the lineup, and could also spell Max Muncy and Justin Turner.