Dodgers Team News

Dodgers News: Jimmy Rollins Says Yasiel Puig Is ‘Just Special’

Ed Szczepanski -USA TODAY Sports
Ed Szczepanski -USA TODAY Sports

One theme of the offseason for the Los Angeles Dodgers was to improve the attitude and culture in the clubhouse. The front office did exactly that by trading for veterans with leadership experience, in particular shortstop Jimmy Rollins.

The 36 year old played 14 years with the Philadelphia Phillies, winning one World Series, the National League MVP Award in 2007 and three Gold Gloves. Since arriving in Los Angeles, Rollins has already looked to assume a leadership role, including in his introductory press conference and more recently, with a two-hour conversation him and Yasiel Puig had in the clubhouse.



Rollins came out of the conversation with nothing but high regard for Puig, according to Eric Stephen of True Blue LA:

As for the energy Puig plays with, Rollins believes if the 24-year-old Puig can channel it properly, the sky is the limit:

Puig enters his third season with the Dodgers and is coming off a disappointing finish in 2014. He batted .296 with 16 homers and 69 RBIs, and was able to cut down on many of the base running and defensive mistakes, but was benched for Game 4 of the NL Division Series.

Plenty of expectations have been placed on Puig’s talented shoulders, especially in the wake of the roster overhaul. Among those who have discussed what may lie ahead is Dodgers general manager Farhan Zaidi, who said he believes Puig can win a Gold Glove in right field.

If Rollins’ leadership can keep Puig’s energy channeled in the right direction, it should aid his efforts in putting together a special season in 2015.

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2 Comments

  1. Y’all haters can say what you want about Friedman and company, but bringing Rollins in to help guide Puig was genius. Remember how AGon’s leadership helped Puig produce last year when they were having the batting contest between the two of them? I’m expecting big things-and big maturity growth from Puig this season. We’ve already seen glimpses of it in the off season. I’m genuinely excited.

  2. This year should be a good year for most of the Dodger players. Hope they can back each other up, and get lots of hits and Homers. We need a good leader in the club house and Gonzo and Jimmy Rollins can keep this club in tack. We have an out standing pitching staff, now lets get the Job done you all. I love my dodger for over 57 years Go Blue Crew We Love LA Dodgers.

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