Dodgers remain hopeful in Gavin Lux

After being one of the best hitters during the spring, Gavin Lux’s bat has cooled off as of late. In 19 games in Arizona, Lux was hitting .314 with OPS just below .800, showing the Dodgers a sign of life that he’d be a consistent and reliable bat in the lineup.

Through the first month of the season, his bat has cooled off as he’s hitting .204 entering play on Wednesday. He’ll be hitting second in the lineup this afternoon, the first time he’s hit there all year. 11 of his 13 starts have been from the fifth spot or lower. While speaking with reporters this morning, manager Dave Roberts said he wanted to get Lux up in the lineup to get him some extra at bats.

“I want to get Gavin going,” he said. “He missed some time and was at the alternate site and was swinging the bat well. I want to give him opportunities. I believe he’s going to have some good ones today.”

After getting off to a hot start to begin the season, Lux has really struggled at the plate over his last 10 games. Since April 6, Lux is batting .121 and has an on-base percentage of .143. He had six hits and three RBI during his first four games. In his 11 games since, he has only four hits and three RBI.

News and notes

• Corey Seager isn’t in the starting lineup. Roberts said it’s just a scheduled day off for him.
• Victor Gonzalez is available out of the bullpen. He was placed on the COVID IL yesterday but activated today. DJ Peters was sent back to the alternate site.
• The plan for the Dodgers is to have a bullpen game on Friday. Roberts is unsure about who will be starting.