A Sellers market could require versatility
This article was originally on a blog post platform and may be missing photos, graphics or links. See About archive blog posts.
If Justin Sellers has a future with the Dodgers that extends beyond this season, it could well be in the Jamey Carroll mode, as someone who can play all over the field.
Sellers has played shortstop exclusively since being called up Aug. 12, and mostly played it well. Manager Don Mattingly said he wants to see him play some second, his position at triple-A Albuquerque while Dee Gordon was there at short.
Gordon’s shoulder contusion was the reason Sellers was called up, and now Gordon is expected to return from the disabled list Thursday.
Mattingly could have switched Carroll to short and played Sellers some at second at any time, but figured there would be plenty of time to evaluate him as a second baseman after Gordon returned.
‘He’s pretty slick with the glove,’ Mattingly said. ‘He’s pretty sure with his hands. He’s fun to watch. He has some range.’
In his first 17 games, Sellers is batting .250, with a .383 slugging percentage. In 30 games, Gordon is batting .234 with a .270 slugging percentage.
MORE:
Dodgers reliever Scott Elbert proves to be a keeper
Andre Ethier has healthy-looking slam in 8-5 win over Padres
-- Steve Dilbeck