If any team wants to take a chance on Yasiel Puig rediscovering his form from two years ago, the Los Angeles Dodgers are listening.
Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports reports that the Dodgers are willing to entertain trade offers for Puig as the Aug. 1 trade deadline approaches. Given his lack of production at the plate over the past two seasons and history of immature behavior, it’s unclear how much teams would be willing to give up to acquire Puig.
Puig, with his ability to hit for power and laser arm in the outfield, appeared to be a can’t-miss major league talent at one point. It’s tough to tell if his regression has more to do with nagging injuries or a lack of focus, but he’s hitting just .257 with seven home runs and 31 RBI this year. Though, as Rosenthal notes, Puig has looked much better at the plate since returning from a hamstring injury a few weeks ago.
Despite his struggles as of late, Puig has plenty working in his favor. He’s just 25 and is owed a total of $14 million over the next two seasons. The Dodgers, who once had a plethora of starting outfielders but are now left scrambling due to injuries and underachievement, might be ready for a change. Rosenthal speculates that they could look at other outfielders like Jay Bruce and Josh Reddick if they decide to move on from Puig.
You could argue that the personality stuff is the biggest concern with Puig. He never got along with Don Mattingly, but Mattingly is gone now and Puig still managed to get himself benched in the middle of a game this season. Many believe his lack of focus contributes to slumps and spells of poor play.
