The Los Angeles Dodgers have been busy in recent days, and on Monday they acquired outfielder Steward Berroa for cash considerations from the Toronto Blue Jays. The Blue Jays had designated Berroa for assignment last week. It is yet to be announced where in the Dodgers’ system the outfielder will land, but they have an open roster spot since designating Yoendrys Gómez for assignment.
The Dodgers acquired OF Steward Berroa from the Toronto Blue Jays for cash considerations.
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) May 12, 2025
Dodgers Acquire Steward Berroa in Trade with Blue Jays
Small Sample Size
Berroa does have some major league experience. He spent 28 games in a Blue Jay uniform last year and has 45 plate appearances to his credit. It is clear that his bat is a work in progress. He had a .189 batting average, below the Mendoza line. However, he does have speed, as evidenced by six stolen bases in eight attempts. His wheels also allow him to cover a lot of outfield grass and he features an above-average glove.
Triple-A Talent
The 26-year-old had a modicum of success in the minors. He had 10 home runs in 300 plate appearances at Triple A. Berroa walked almost 12% of the time but also struck out nearly a quarter of the time. His major asset, speed, garnered 47 stolen bases, and there is no substitute for speed at any level of professional baseball.
Insurance Policy
Recently, the Dodgers also acquired Esteury Ruiz from the Athletics, and Berroa may be added for depth. However, outfielder Teoscar Hernández is still on the injured list with a groin strain. The Dodgers are optimistic that the right fielder will miss minimal time, but those injuries are tricky. Hernandez’s replacement, James Outman, has struggled at the plate with a high strikeout rate. and hitting for a .067 batting average. It remains to be seen how patient the Dodgers will be with the once Rookie of the Year runner-up. Whatever happens, it is clear that the Dodgers are hedging their bets, just in case.
Photo Credit: © Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images
