Dodgers Add More Outfield Depth, Sign Former Top-10 Pick

This former Top-10 pick might be able to flourish with the Dodgers

We've seen it time and time again. 

If there's one MLB franchise that loves a reclamation project, it's the Los Angeles Dodgers. 

Andrew Friedman and his scouting department are excellent at unearthing gems that could be overlooked by other clubs, yet fit perfectly with the philosophy of the Dodgers and its infrastructure. 

Looking to strike gold yet again on a player fitting that profile, the Dodgers agreed to a deal with former Pittsburgh Pirates outfielder Travis Swaggerty. 

SIGNED: #Dodgers have signed RHP Nabil Crismatt and OF Travis Swaggerty both to minor-league contracts.

— MLB Transaction Tracker (@MLBMovesTracker) December 20, 2023

Swaggerty was a highly touted prep prospect coming from the state of Louisiana. After three years at South Alabama, the Pirates decided to take him with the No. 10 overall pick in the 2018 draft. 

The combination of injuries and the pandemic slowed his development considerably. Swaggerty not only was dealing with shoulder issues but also a multitude of migraines. 

At 26 years of age, the left-handed hitter has only nine career MLB at-bats (with one career hit). This is a minuscule sample size and one which we can't take too much from. 

However, there's something the Dodgers must like if they're willing to take a chance on Swaggerty. L.A. does need some depth in left field, and clearly, there's some talent here if he was formerly a first-round pick. 

With the developmental staff, retooling Swaggerty's swing is likely the first thing on the agenda. From there, a focus on keeping him healthy is likely a top priority. 

The Dodgers have done well with these sorts of players in the past, and it wouldn't be a shock to see Swaggerty help the ballclub in some form or fashion.