Dodgers make big decision on James Outman

Apr 13, 2024; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers center fielder James Outman (33) reacts after scoring a run against the San Diego Padres during the fourth inning at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

James Outman is now out of the major-league roster.

The Los Angeles Dodgers announced on Friday that they have optioned their second-year outfielder Outman to Triple-A. They are recalling fellow outfielder Miguel Vargas in a corresponding move.

Outman, 27, looked like a rising star for the Dodgers as a rookie last season. Over 151 total games, he hit .248 with 23 home runs, 70 RBIs, and 16 stolen bases. Outman also finished third in NL Rookie of the Year voting (behind only Corbin Carroll and Kodai Senga).

But Outman had been struggling mightily this season. In 36 games, he was well below the Mendoza Line with his .147 batting average and dismal .516 OPS. Once the everyday center fielder for the Dodgers, Outman had been steadily losing playing time lately to rookie Andy Pages, 23.

As for Vargas, 24, he is now set for another chance in the bigs after falling pretty flat last season but bouncing back this season with a .295 batting average at Triple-A.