With MLB’s best record, the Los Angeles Dodgers don’t need a lot of help. But they’re going to get a jolt in the form of top hitting prospect Alex Verdugo.
Alex Verdugo will join #Dodgers in SD when rosters expand. Joc Pederson will not. Likely later when AAA season ends
— Bill Plunkett (@billplunkettocr) August 31, 2017
With only six home runs in 2017 and a Minor League career high of 13 in 2016, Verdugo isn’t much of a power threat. But he is still a dangerous hitter that can either be used as a front of the order table setter, or someone who can add depth towards the bottom of the order. With Triple-A Oklahoma City, Verdugo has hit .314/.389/.436 in 2017.
Verdugo ranks as the No. 28 prospect in all of baseball and is No. 2 in the Los Angeles organization, trailing only pitcher Walker Buehler.
On a team like the Dodgers, Verdugo will likely be used primarily as a pinch hitter. But with Joc Pederson set to remain in the minors for a while, Verdugo will certainly see some starting time in the outfield, as well.