Dodgers Roster 2020: A Deep Dive Into The Depth Chart

by Jhon Lennon 54 views

The Dodgers roster 2020 season was a memorable one for Los Angeles fans, culminating in a World Series victory. This success wasn't just about star power; it was built on incredible depth. Let's take a detailed look at the Dodgers 2020 roster and depth chart, position by position, to understand how the team was constructed and how each player contributed to their championship run.

Catchers

The catching position was anchored by veteran leadership and promising young talent. Here’s how the depth chart looked:

  • Starter: Will Smith
  • Backup: Austin Barnes

Will Smith quickly established himself as the primary catcher with his offensive prowess and improving defensive skills. In 2020, Smith hit .289 with 8 home runs in just 37 games, showcasing his potential as a middle-of-the-order threat. His ability to handle the pitching staff and provide clutch hits made him an invaluable asset.

Austin Barnes, a seasoned veteran, served as the perfect complement to Smith. Known for his defensive abilities and rapport with Clayton Kershaw, Barnes was crucial in handling certain pitching matchups and providing rest for Smith. His experience and steady presence were vital during the playoffs.

The combination of Smith's offensive upside and Barnes's defensive reliability provided the Dodgers with a well-rounded catching duo, capable of contributing in various ways throughout the season and into the playoffs.

Infielders

The Dodgers boasted a versatile and talented infield, featuring established stars and valuable role players. The depth chart included:

  • First Base: Max Muncy
  • Second Base: Kiké Hernández / Chris Taylor
  • Shortstop: Corey Seager
  • Third Base: Justin Turner

Max Muncy solidified his role as the everyday first baseman, bringing his unique blend of power and on-base ability to the top of the lineup. In 2020, Muncy hit .192 with 12 home runs and 27 RBIs in 58 games. While his batting average wasn't stellar, his plate discipline and ability to draw walks remained crucial to the Dodgers' offensive strategy.

Kiké Hernández and Chris Taylor shared duties at second base, offering versatility and flexibility to the lineup. Hernández, known for his clutch hitting and energetic play, provided a spark both offensively and defensively. Taylor, with his ability to play multiple positions, was a valuable asset in platooning situations and late-game defensive replacements.

Corey Seager enjoyed a breakout season in 2020, solidifying his status as one of the premier shortstops in baseball. Seager hit .307 with 15 home runs and 41 RBIs in 52 games, earning him the World Series MVP award. His offensive production and improved defense were instrumental in the Dodgers' championship run.

Justin Turner continued to be a cornerstone of the Dodgers' infield, providing consistent offense and veteran leadership. Turner hit .307 with 4 home runs and 23 RBIs in 42 games. His experience and ability to come through in clutch situations made him an invaluable presence in the lineup.

Outfielders

The Dodgers' outfield was a mix of established stars, rising talents, and versatile role players. Here’s the breakdown:

  • Left Field: AJ Pollock
  • Center Field: Cody Bellinger
  • Right Field: Mookie Betts

AJ Pollock held down left field, providing a potent bat in the middle of the order. In 2020, Pollock hit .276 with 16 home runs and 34 RBIs in 55 games. His offensive production and improved defense made him a key contributor to the Dodgers' success.

Cody Bellinger, the 2019 NL MVP, patrolled center field, offering exceptional defense and offensive potential. While his offensive numbers dipped slightly in 2020, Bellinger remained a vital part of the Dodgers' lineup with his power and speed. He hit .239 with 12 home runs and 30 RBIs in 56 games.

Mookie Betts, acquired in a blockbuster trade, immediately became a centerpiece of the Dodgers' roster, playing right field and leading the team both on and off the field. Betts hit .292 with 16 home runs and 39 RBIs in 55 games, earning him an MVP award. His all-around talent and leadership were crucial in the Dodgers' championship run.

Starting Pitchers

The Dodgers' starting rotation was among the best in baseball, combining veteran experience with young talent. The rotation included:

  • Clayton Kershaw
  • Walker Buehler
  • Julio Urías
  • Dustin May
  • Tony Gonsolin

Clayton Kershaw, a franchise icon, continued to anchor the rotation, providing veteran leadership and consistent performance. In 2020, Kershaw went 6-2 with a 2.16 ERA in 10 starts. His experience and ability to perform in high-pressure situations were invaluable during the playoffs.

Walker Buehler emerged as a frontline starter, showcasing his electric stuff and ability to dominate opposing hitters. In 2020, Buehler went 1-0 with a 3.44 ERA in 8 starts. His performance in the playoffs, including a dominant outing in the World Series, solidified his status as a top-tier pitcher.

Julio Urías played a crucial role, transitioning from a reliever to a starter and providing valuable innings. In 2020, Urías went 3-0 with a 3.27 ERA in 11 appearances (10 starts). His versatility and ability to pitch in various roles made him a valuable asset to the Dodgers' pitching staff.

Dustin May and Tony Gonsolin were key contributors to the rotation, showcasing their potential and adding depth to the pitching staff. May went 3-1 with a 2.57 ERA in 12 appearances (10 starts), while Gonsolin went 2-2 with a 2.31 ERA in 9 appearances (6 starts). Their emergence provided the Dodgers with additional options and flexibility in the rotation.

Relief Pitchers

The Dodgers' bullpen was a strength of the team, featuring a mix of veteran arms and emerging talents. Key relievers included:

  • Kenley Jansen
  • Blake Treinen
  • Brusdar Graterol
  • Joe Kelly
  • Jake McGee

Kenley Jansen, the long-time closer, continued to handle closing duties, providing stability at the end of games. In 2020, Jansen recorded 11 saves with a 3.33 ERA in 24 appearances. His experience and ability to close out games were crucial in the Dodgers' success.

Blake Treinen emerged as a key setup man, providing valuable innings in high-leverage situations. In 2020, Treinen posted a 3.86 ERA in 27 appearances. His ability to generate strikeouts and control the running game made him a valuable asset in the bullpen.

Brusdar Graterol, acquired in a trade, added power and depth to the bullpen, showcasing his potential as a future closer. In 2020, Graterol posted a 3.09 ERA in 23 appearances. His electric fastball and aggressive approach made him a valuable addition to the Dodgers' relief corps.

Joe Kelly and Jake McGee were important pieces in the Dodgers' bullpen, offering experience and versatility. Kelly posted a 2.86 ERA in 12 appearances, while McGee recorded 3 saves with a 4.02 ERA in 24 appearances. Their ability to pitch in various roles and provide valuable innings made them important contributors to the Dodgers' pitching staff.

The Dodgers roster 2020 depth chart showcased the team's commitment to building a well-rounded and versatile roster. The combination of established stars, rising talents, and valuable role players allowed the Dodgers to overcome injuries and maintain a high level of performance throughout the season, ultimately leading to their World Series championship. From the catching duo of Will Smith and Austin Barnes to the starting rotation anchored by Clayton Kershaw and Walker Buehler, each player contributed to the team's success. The bullpen, led by Kenley Jansen and Blake Treinen, provided stability and depth in high-leverage situations. The Dodgers' ability to mix and match their lineup, utilize platoons, and rely on their depth was a key factor in their championship run. This roster construction demonstrated the importance of having a deep and talented team, capable of adapting to various situations and overcoming adversity. The 2020 Dodgers will be remembered as one of the most talented and well-constructed teams in recent memory, a testament to the organization's commitment to building a championship-caliber roster.