Dodgers Rumors: Speedy Outfielder Justin Dean Reportedly Promoted from Triple-A
LOS ANGELES, CA—While the Los Angeles Dodgers look to wash away their series finale meltdown on Wednesday and prepare for a critical weekend series against the Toronto Blue Jays, they’ll be joined by another minor league outfielder.
According to DodgersDaily, the Dodgers are set to promote speedy outfielder Justin Dean, and he’ll join the team in Los Angeles on Friday.
Dean, 28, is not yet on the 40-man roster, so a corresponding move will have to be made before he can offically be activated on the active roster.
The former 17th-round pick in the 2018 Major League Baseball Draft by the Atlanta Braves, Dean, has been a career minor leaguer waiting for an opportunity to showcase his skillset.
Now, after four months with the Triple-A OKC Comets, Dean will have the chance to showcase that speed, having stolen 237 bases in 291 attempts, including 25 stolen bases this season.
In 80 games with the Comets this season, Dean is slashing .279/.376/.434. What he lacks in power, he makes up for with elite speed and above-average defense, primarily playing center field.
As for who Dean could be replacing on the Dodgers’ roster, that remains unclear. Alex Call did have an outstanding catch at the top of the first inning, crashing into the metal fence with the blunt of his shoulder, but he proceeded to play all nine innings.
He could replace fellow speedster Esteury Ruiz, who’s primarily been on the Dodgers’ bench as a pinch runner/late-inning defensive replacement, a role that Dean would seemingly provide.
Have you subscribed to the Bleed Los Podcast YouTube channel? Be sure to ring the notification bell to watch player interviews, participate in shows & promotions, and stay up to date on all Dodgers news and rumors!
