Gary Sheffield, Jr
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The Los Angeles Dodgers dealt with shoddy play from catchers over the years, but will this year be any different? Emerging offensive star Will Smith has solidified his spot in the lineup, but his defensive metrics should cause concern.
Smith serves as an imposing bat, but so was Yasmani Grandal before he became L.A.’s scapegoat. His defensive metrics shouldn’t be seen as a disaster depending on how they plan on using the slugger. If any team they face features a running game, Smith should be moved to the bench for Austin Barnes (who ranks 5th in defensive metrics).
Winning the World Series in 2020 has much more to do with manager Dave Roberts than any catcher. Putting players in situations to utilize their strengths is his job and Dodgers fans shouldn’t fall into finding another scapegoat. Late game situations call for Austin Barnes defense replacements leaving Will Smith’s job to hit stress-free.
Dodgers Fans when Dave Roberts brings in Clayton Kershaw for a crucial situation again pic.twitter.com/wiMSCgCUaA
— Breezy B (@Ben_Breezy02) September 29, 2020
Dodgers-Brewers kick off tomorrow night at 10 ET and Dave Roberts gets his first chance to send this championship team to the promised land.
I’m most concerned about a very short opening series. Lose two and you’re out, best record out the window again. Roberts staying too long with Kershaw is a time-honored playoff tradition.
Dodgers start tomorrow, btw
Smith has been solid. This team is so talented, but it’s Dave Roberts and the analytics you have worry about in the post-season.