Dodgers notes: Michael Busch, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Davey Johnson

Michael Busch got his first cup of coffee this season with the at the big league level, displaying glimpses of his impressive power and fielding versatility that made him arguably the best hitter in the Pacific Coast League this season.

The former first-round pick by the Dodgers appeared in 27 games this season, slashing .167/.247/.292 with just two home runs, seven RBI, and a wRC+ of 49 in 81 plate appearances. Busch displayed a similar defensive versatility to fellow teammate Max Muncy, as he manned first, second, and third base at the highest level.

The offensive numbers at the big leagues are underwhelming— despite the small sample size— but Busch was simply elite at the Triple-A level. In 98 games with Oklahoma City, he slashed .323/.431/.618 with 27 home runs, 90 RBI, 26 doubles and a 150 wRC+ in 469 plate appearances.

Gerard Gilberto of MILB.com writes about Busch’s journey to the Major League level, noting how the former No. 44 overall prospect should receive playing time next season even with the return of shortstop Gavin Lux:

“Even as Gavin Lux is set to return from his knee injury, there should be opportunities for Busch to secure a spot on the big league roster this spring. It’ll be hard to find a better Minor League track record.”

Links

There are at least three teams— the Dodgers, Giants, and Yankees— that are interested in signing Japanese right-handed starter Yoshinobu Yamamoto. Erik Beaston of Bleacher Report writes about how a Yamamoto deal with the Giants could reignite their rivalry with the Dodgers.

Steve Henson of the Los Angeles Times writes about the managers currently on the Hall of Fame Contemporary Era ballot. Former player and longtime manager Davey Johnson, who managed the Dodgers from 1999-2000, is one of four managers to make the ballot.

Juan Toribio of the MLB.com lists five questions facing the Dodgers entering the offseason, including the uncertain future of Clayton Kershaw, upgrades and additions to the Dodgers pitching staff, and Max Muncy’s 2024 player option.

A brand new baseball league has arrived in Dubai, as the Baseball United League recently held its inaugural draft, which features former veterans Robinson Canó, Pablo Sandoval, and Didi Gregorius. Jon Hoefling of USA Today has more on baseball’s newest league, noting how former Dodgers Adrian Beltre, Shane Victorino, and Hanley Ramirez were all investors in the league.