In an effort to spark a lifeless offense, the Dodgers have called up outfielder Jerry Sands and designated Xavier Paul for assignment. Sands could play in left field for an ailing Marcus Thames, or slide over to first to spell an ineffective James Loney.
Wherever he plays, it's a good move by the Dodgers. Rather than just sitting back and hoping guys like Loney will step up, Don Mattingly can now give someone else a chance to make some noise. And make no mistake about it, Sands has been on fire in Triple-A Albuquerque this season. He's hitting .400 with five homers, 17 RBIs, and a 1.297 OPS.
Last season, he was named the organization's player of the year by hitting 35 homers between Single-A and Double-A. Mattingly already has him in the lineup for Monday night's game against the Braves.
I'm very much looking forward to seeing what this kid can do. It's not like the offense can get much worse, so why not put him in there? It would be a welcome sight for Dodger fans if he can have a big game sometime soon. If he struggles early, then it will be interesting to see how long Ned Colletti and others will stick with him. Either way, this is the right move to make.
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