GOOD NEWS:Dodgers and Nick Ahmed Strike …read more
The Dodgers have agreed to sign shortstop Nick Ahmed to a Major League contract and are placing Miguel Rojas on the injured list, according to Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic. David Vassegh of 570 Sports initially reported Ahmed’s presence with the team on X. Ahmed, who is represented by Excel Sports Management, joins the Dodgers after a brief stint with the Giants, where he struggled offensively with a .232/.278/.303 batting line in 52 games. He was released by San Francisco two weeks ago and found a new opportunity with Los Angeles due to the team’s infield injury woes. Ahmed will earn the prorated MLB minimum salary for his time with the Dodgers, while the Giants remain responsible for the remainder of his salary.
The Dodgers have been without Mookie Betts for over five weeks since he suffered a hand injury while being hit by a pitch. Betts had been performing at an MVP level as the Dodgers’ everyday shortstop. With Betts out, Rojas has been filling in at shortstop but has struggled offensively, hitting .241/.282/.329 in 86 plate appearances. The Dodgers have primarily relied on Rojas for his defensive capabilities, which have been strong.
Ahmed will take on a similar defensive role, stepping in for Rojas, who has been sidelined with forearm tightness. Enrique Hernández has been filling in at shortstop but is more suited to other positions. Ahmed, a two-time Gold Glove winner, is expected to provide solid defense while the Dodgers wait for Rojas or Betts to return. Ahmed will start against the Giants and face Robbie Ray in the lefty’s season debut.
The Dodgers might seek additional middle infield help before the trade deadline, but their primary focus appears to be acquiring impact players for October. Betts is anticipated to return next month and resume his role at shortstop for the postseason.
