3 unexpected Dodgers performances that have saved 2022 season

2. Gavin Lux

Even the most optimistic of Dodgers fans didn’t expect Gavin Lux to be one of the most productive hitters in the NATIONAL LEAGUE in 2022 after his first 144 games at the big league level. But here he is.

Lux is slashing .296/.372/.434 with 61 runs scored, a league-leading seven triples, six homers, 42 RBI, seven stolen bases and only 77 strikeouts in 113 games. How about that 122 OPS+, too? He also played second base, left field and shortstop for LA this year, effectively filling in when called upon.

Once upon a time, Lux was the top prospect in all of baseball. Then he was heading toward “bust” territory. Then it was believed he could be traded to help LA supplement another area of the roster. Now? Not sure where the Dodgers would be without him. His lefty bat has helped absorb the lackluster production of Max Muncy and Cody Bellinger. He’s helped lengthen the Dodgers’ lineup and make it the behemoth it is.

On top of that, he’s been clutch. In high-leverage situations, Lux is hitting .323 with an .831 OPS, 14 RBI and 11 walks (52 games, 77 plate appearances). It helps he’s hitting left-handed pitching almost effectively as he’s hitting righties. Can’t pitch around the guy.

He might be a supporting cast member, but the manner in which Lux has delivered completely changed the complexion of this Dodgers lineup and helped them cope with a number of other underperforming bats.