The Los Angeles Dodgers face several issues heading into the season, perhaps none bigger than at shortstop.
In the offseason, Trea Turner signed an 11-year, $300 million contract with the Philadelphia Phillies, leaving a vacancy at the position. Gavin Lux was the obvious choice to take over. As insurance, the Dodgers traded for Miguel Rojas, who can also play other infield spots.
Lux embraced the challenge of the shortstop role. Over the offseason, he worked out at the renowned data-driven training center, Driveline, just south of Seattle, and noticeably bulked up.
However, just a few games into spring training, the Dodgers found out they'll have to rely on Rojas more than they expected.
During the sixth inning against the San Diego Padres on Monday, Lux suffered a right knee injury after awkwardly planting his foot in the ground while running to third base. Lux fell to the ground grabbing his knee and was clearly in a lot of pain. He was carted from the field.
Gavin Lux is carted off the field after sustaining an apparent injury running to third base.
— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) February 27, 2023
(via @SportsNetLA) pic.twitter.com/lDVo6bNNGr
Per ESPN, he will miss an extended period.
Without Lux, the Dodgers might start Rojas at shortstop on Opening Day. However, the 34-year-old veteran -- in his second stint with the Dodgers -- is battling an injury, too.
Rojas recently was removed from a game after feeling his foot cramp up after hitting a single. He assured the media that the injury wouldn’t keep him out for more than a few days.
Miguel Rojas singles and then leaves the game in the third inning with cramp. pic.twitter.com/ni3M8XS9gN
— Mr Matthew CFB (@MrMatthewCFB) February 26, 2023
With the Dodgers facing more questions about their depth than in years past, this is not the start the team wants.
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