DENVER, CO – SEPTEMBER 29: Trayce Thompson #47 of the Los Angeles Dodgers singles in a pinch hit appearance in the third inning of a game against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field on September 29, 2017 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
With star outfielder Mookie Betts injured for the time being, the Dodgers traded for some outfield depth, which was essential.
Trayce Thompson, a former Dodger himself, was readily available. He was not getting an MLB opportunity with the Detroit Tigers.
So, the Dodgers made the call.
Thompson will get that chance with Los Angeles, at least momentarily, where he will excel as a right-handed hitter in a familiar environment. Trayce had a 1.085 OPS in Triple-A at the time of said deal.
For Detroit, this deal was all about the money. Thompson wanted out, and Detroit wasn’t about to let him walk away for nothing. So, they took whatever vending machine LA was able to throw their way. Heck, the Dodgers aren’t lacking in cash.
Dodgers find Mookie Betts short-term replacement
Thompson had 17 home runs at Triple-A Toledo this season before he was dealt to Los Angeles. The Dodgers are banking on that power returning at the MLB level.
However, his main issue has been the strikeout. Thompson has struck out in over a quarter of his MLB at-bats. At a certain point, the power can only take him so far.
As a short-term acquisition, Thompson makes sense. He won’t hit near the top of the lineup, nor should he. However, he’ll give Los Angeles some pop while they try to tread water without one of the best hitters in baseball in their lineup.