The Los Angeles Dodgers have elevated outfielder Justin Dean from the minors ahead of their Friday matchup against the Toronto Blue Jays.
Dean, who is 28 years old, is set to make his Major League Baseball debut during this game. Earlier this week, the news of his call-up was first reported by Dodgers Daily’s Casey Porter.
This season, Dean has played in 81 games at Triple-A Oklahoma City, where he has posted a batting line of .274/.370/.426 along with six home runs, 31 RBIs, and an impressive 25 stolen bases. His addition to the roster comes at the expense of Esteury Ruiz, who was optioned back to the minors according to the team’s transaction records. To accommodate Dean on the 40-man roster, Luken Baker, who was recently acquired, has been designated for assignment.
Originally selected in the 17th round of the 2018 MLB Draft by the Atlanta Braves, Dean has spent the majority of his professional career with the Braves before joining the Dodgers on a minor league contract in the offseason. Known for his ability to cover all three outfield positions, Dean offers speed and versatility off the bench. Although his starting opportunities may be limited, particularly against left-handed pitchers, he may see playing time as a pinch runner or defensive substitute in close games.
As the Dodgers continue to enhance their roster, the team looks forward to how Dean will contribute, especially as they approach crucial matchups in the season.
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