Dodgers News: Mattingly Intends To Use Pederson In Variety Of Roles
In his first year with Triple-A Albuquerque, Pederson had a big season that culminated with him being named the Pacific Coast League Most Valuable Player. Pederson also set history as he became the first PCL player in 80 years to hit for 30 home runs and steal 30 bases in one season.
While Pederson is another outfielder being added to a position that already has a surplus, manager Don Mattingly envisions using Pederson in a multitude of situational purposes, according to MLB.com’s Michael Lananna:
Mattingly said they could use Pederson to steal a base, pinch hit, etc. Would play him in all three outfield spots.
— Michael Lananna (@mlananna) September 1, 2014
While Mattingly outlined how he would like to use Pederson, he also added there may not be many opportunities for the players who joined the expanded roster:
"Right now, we're not looking to try people out, we're not trying to get extra ABs. We're not trying to be fair." Mattingly. All about wins.
— Michael Lananna (@mlananna) September 1, 2014
Mattingly indicated just over one week ago Pederson wouldn’t necessarily receive an extended opportunity to play, but thought being at the Major League level for the first time in his career would still be of benefit for the outfielder.
His comments came when the Dodgers held a more comfortable, though not insurmountable, lead in the National League West standings. After losing two of three to the San Diego Padres, the Dodgers enter play in September with just a two-game lead over the San Francisco Giants.
Monday marks the start of a pivotal three-game series against the Washington Nationals, who hold a one-game lead over the Dodgers for the best record in the NL.
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