MLB
Dodger Killer A.J. Pollock Signs With Dodgers
After tons of rumors and much speculation, it is reported that the Dodger killer A.J. Pollock has signed with the Dodgers! There have been couple reports of what Pollock’s deal will be, but all in the 5 year/$60 million range. However, the deal is a little complex with how it’s structured. For example, it is reported that Pollock will have the ability to opt-out after three years, depending on the number of plate appearances he makes. Further, if Pollock chooses to stay, then he would be earning $55 million over four years with another player option where he would make $10 million in 2023; or $5 million if he decides to test the free-agent market then. Let’s take a look at what Pollock has to offer.
Pollock’s Career Thus Far…
31-year old A. J. Pollock has been in the big leagues for seven seasons and has spent all of them with the Arizona Diamondbacks. Over his seven-year career, Pollock has a solid .281 batting average with 74 home runs and 264 RBIs. One knock on Pollock is that he can’t stay healthy. However, when he was at his healthiest in 2015 Pollock made the All-Star team. He hit .315 with 20 homers, 76 RBIs, and stole 39 bases that year and also earned a Gold Glove as well!
Although Pollock’s stat line last year was just a .257 batting average with 68 RBIs he still hit 21 homers and straight up killed the Dodgers. During the 2018 season, just against the Dodgers, A.J. Pollock hit .301 with 9 home runs and 16 RBIs, including a three home run game! It will be nice not having to face him in the numerous N.L. West series throughout the season.
How This Helps The Dodgers
How does signing A.J. Pollock help the Dodgers? One, it gives the Dodgers a true veteran Center Fielder that only made one error last year and has a Gold Glove. Having a true above-average everyday Center Fielder then lets Cody Bellinger focus on playing First Base. It also gives the Dodgers a decent right-handed bat which they desperately needed. Plus, with the Dodgers being so deep and having so many players being able to play infield and outfield, it allows for Pollock to get rest when needed so he can stay healthy. And, if he stays healthy I’ve already mentioned the type of numbers he could have!
Although there has been much chatter in Dodger Nation about the Dodgers not making moves and doing nothing, the signing of A.J. Pollock shows that just because it’s quiet for a while, doesn’t mean nothing is happening behind the scenes. The Dodgers waited for the price of Pollock to drop and then swooped in and locked him up for a great price. Overall, the Dodgers got a steal with the A.J. Pollock deal, so fans should be happy. Welcome to the Dodgers, A.J.!
Photo Credit to Hayden Schiff via Flickr
