Gavin Lux’s journey to becoming the Los Angeles Dodgers’ everyday shortstop has hit a roadblock. Despite being expected to take over the role last season, Lux’s progress has been hindered by setbacks, especially in terms of his defensive abilities. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has not committed to Lux as the regular starter for the upcoming season, citing the importance of performance.
Lux’s struggles on defense have raised red flags. Making errors on the first two ground balls hit to him this spring training, Lux is showing issues with accuracy in his throws, particularly to first base. These defensive shortcomings are a cause for concern for the Dodgers, as they need a reliable and solid shortstop to anchor their defense.
Time to Adjust
Roberts acknowledges that Lux needs time to readjust to the speed and demands of major league play. Lux’s return from a knee injury that sidelined him for the entire 2023 season has impacted his defensive capabilities. While Lux has shown promising offensive numbers in spring training, his defensive struggles may overshadow his offensive contributions.
With the presence of veteran Miguel Rojas, who performed well defensively at shortstop last season, Lux faces tough competition for the starting role. Rojas’s defensive prowess played a significant role in the Dodgers’ success in the previous season. Additionally, the imminent Opening Day leaves the Dodgers with little time to make a decision on who will start at shortstop when the regular season kicks off on March 20 against the San Diego Padres in South Korea.
Gavin Lux’s path to becoming the Dodgers’ everyday shortstop is facing uncertainty due to his defensive struggles and the competition he faces from veterans like Miguel Rojas. Lux must show significant progress in his defensive abilities to secure the starting role. With time running out before the start of the regular season, the Dodgers are in a tight spot in deciding who will be their starting shortstop moving forward. Lux’s future with the Dodgers hangs in the balance, and only time will tell if he can rise to the occasion and fulfill the expectations set for him.