Dodgers: AJ Pollock fortunate to have extra time at home

As Major League Baseball players anxiously await the start of the 2020 season, Dodgers outfielder AJ Pollock is fortunate to have the extra time at home.

One week after Spring Training camps shuddered due to the novel coronavirus, and thirteen weeks before his wife was due to give birth, Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder A.J. Pollock welcomed a baby girl into this world.

Born at only 24 weeks, weighing an incredible 1.6 pounds, it has been a tough road over the past two months for Pollock and his wife, as the couple has been working with doctors to keep little Madi Mae healthy.

Luckily, she is progressing well, according to Pollock.

Appearing as a guest on SportsNetLA on Tuesday, Pollock described the importance of being able to stay home during this challenging time.

"“I wouldn’t know how I would have done this in season,” Pollock said. “It’s just such a unique circumstance. Just thinking about me being away from Kate [his wife] right now, and not being able to see Maddie’s progress. They definitely need me. Just to be here and support whatever they are going through.”"

It is a great reminder that there are more important things than baseball, and how an unfortunate outcome can lead to a unique opportunity.

If the major league season had started as scheduled, Pollock would have been caught in a difficult situation trying to balance his responsibilities at home with his commitment to the Dodgers.

As Major League Baseball and the player’s union negotiate financial terms and health protocols for a potential season, Pollock will be paying extra attention to his health, as he juggles playing baseball with reducing any possible risk to his daughter.

"“I don’t want to put her at risk,” Pollock said. “If there’s any chance of putting her at risk, it gets to be a difficult decision. [The doctors] have been pretty reassuring, and I don’t anticipate there being an issue.”"

The 32-year-old right-hander signed a four-year, $55 million contract with Los Angeles before the 2019 season. After his debut campaign was interrupted by elbow surgery, Pollock’s name came up in trade rumors this past offseason, as the Dodgers tried to find a way to manage their crowded outfield that now includes Mookie Betts.

With Major League Baseball likely to institute a universal DH for the 2020 season, Pollock could find more at-bats against right-handed pitchers, a role usually reserved for Joc Pederson in left field. It is expected Pollock and Pederson will platoon together in the corner outfield position.

In the end, it is great to hear Pollock and his family are doing well.