Matt Davidson could potentially pitch for Dodgers in 2021

Matt Davidson was the hero for the Dodgers on Sunday afternoon. In a tie game in the seventh, his solo shot put LA up 2-1 and ultimately gave them the win.

Although he hit a game-winning home run, the biggest news in regards to Davidson came from Dodgers manager Dave Roberts following the game, when he said we could see Davidson log some innings for the Dodgers in 2021.

“He’s open to the idea of logging some innings out of the bullpen,” Roberts said to the media. “He threw a pen the other day. The ball came out good, so he gives us that versatility.”

This certainly is surprising news, but it doesn’t come as a complete shock. Davidson has pitched in six games during his career, allowing two runs in 6 ¹⁄₃ innings with three strikeouts. His most recent outing out of the bullpen came on September 1 last season.

Roberts said that he’s unsure whether or not Davidson will face any hitters in a game during Spring Training. He said that he wants to get a few more bullpens and a potential live session for him before throwing him out there.

Roberts added that he thinks for a plus or minus situation, to save an arm out of the bullpen has a lot of value. He’s a right-handed bat off the bench with power who can play first base and third base. Roberts said he thinks there’s a good chance Davidson will be seeing time for the Dodgers at some point soon.

Notables from Game 1:

• Corey Seager had an RBI single in the 3rd inning
• Zach McKinstry had a hit. When speaking with the media during the game, AJ Pollock said McKinstry will rake and is excited to see him play this season
• Michael Grove closed the game for LA with a 1-2-3 scoreless inning. He recorded two strikeouts

Box score