Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports
The Los Angeles Dodgers recently signed Cuban infielder Alexander Guerrero in what appears to be a move to replace current second baseman and now free agent, Mark Ellis. Although it has only been a short four games thus far, Guerrero’s solid performance in the Dominican Winter League is exactly what the Dodgers were hoping to see out of their newest international star.
Through Guerrero’s first four games, the 5-10 righty has gone 6-14, a .429 batting average, for the Cibao Giants. The Cuban’s debut game was certainly impressive as he went two for five with a double and a single and drove in two runners. His most impressive game has certainly been the most recent, however, as Guerrero torched the Cibaenas Eagles on a 3-3 day while recording his first home run.
It is too small of a sample size to attempt to pencil Guerrero into the MLB Rookie of the Year race or the All-Star Game, but the Boys in Blue could not have asked for a much better start out of the ball player they hope to have on their 25-man roster this spring. Guerrero has a lot of work to do and plenty of time before Spring Training, but if he can keep this level of play up, he could very well be joining Yasiel Puig in the Cuban ranks in the Dodgers’ starting lineup.
It will be intriguing to watch this 27-year-old infielder develop as the Dodgers head to Camelback Ranch after winter. Although Mark Ellis had a solid year for the organization, his offensive contribution was a tad underwhelming and Guerrero’s bat could give the Dodger offense just what it needs to avoid a slow start to the 2014 season. With Ellis’ status as a free agent leaving the Dodgers in a state of limbo in regards to their second baseman, Guerrero’s strong start is vital to providing a sense of security.
Isaac Comelli is a Los Angeles Dodgers writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @IsaacComelli, “Like” him on Facebook or follow him on Google.
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