2016 Dodgers review: Trayce Thompson

Trayce Thompson, acquired from the White Sox in a three-team trade in December 2015, proved a valuable part of the Dodgers outfield before a back injury shortened his first year with Los Angeles.

What went right

Despite playing just half a season, Thompson ranked second among Dodgers outfielders with 13 home runs, a total that was tied for second among all players on the team at the All-Star break.

Thompson was especially hot in May, hitting .270/.352/.603 with six home runs and 14 RBI in 21 games.

Thompson made the opening day roster as a reserve outfielder but his production and injuries on the team increased his role, such that he started 44 games in a 50-game stretch from May 16 to July 7.

Thompson hit two of the Dodgers’ three walk-off home runs in 2016, beating the Mets on May 10 and the Rockies on June 7.

What went wrong

Was just 5-for-35 (.143) in July, and hit just .147/.214/.274 in his final 28 games of the season.

Those final 28 games came much sooner than expected, as Thompson was placed on the disabled list with what at first was thought to be lower back irritation. X-rays later revealed multiple fractures in his back, negating any thoughts of a comeback attempt this season.

Thompson’s final game of the year was July 10.

2016 particulars

Age: 26

Stats: .225/.302/.436, 13 HR, 32 RBI, 5 SB in 80 games; 0.9 rWAR, 0.4 fWAR

Salary: $512,500

Game of the year

Thompson hit two home runs, walked, scored three runs and drove in three against the Angels on May 16. It was the first multi-homer game of Thompson’s career.

Roster status

Thompson has one year, 63 days of major league service time, and one option year remaining.