Dodgers Fans Call for a Change with James Outman

A fix for the wrong problem.

The season hasn't gotten off the way Dodgers fans had hoped with the team sitting at .500 10 games in. There have been glimmers of good and splashes of bad en route to a 5-5 record but all of it has some fans already exploring ways to improve the lineup.

One way? Move James Outman up in the order.

First off, hitting and run production hasn't really been the issue for LA. Despite a few guys off to slow starts opening the season, the Dodgers are still near the top of the league in several offensive categories. Still, when given the choice, an overwhelming majority of fans would love to see Outman moved up in the lineup.

Should the Dodgers move James Outman up in the lineup? #DNpolls

— Dodgers Nation (@DodgersNation) April 9, 2023

Nearly 90% of the more than 1,500 who've voted would like to see Outman moved up. Dave Roberts showed a willingness to adjust the lineup on Sunday with him moving Max Muncy down a spot in the order amid his early season struggles.

An 0-4 afternoon yesterday doesn't help the cries for James to move up but he's still hitting .296 with an exceptional 1.235 OPS.

While it's fun to explore the idea, it might not be quite the time just yet. We know Dave isn't going to change his regular 1-2-3 of Mookie Betts, Freddie Freeman, and Will Smith any time soon. And it's probably too early in his young career for Outman to be hitting cleanup.

If J.D. Martinez moved up to the 4 spot and Outman to the 5, maybe you're on to something there.

Let's give it a couple more weeks to see where the lineup production is at and how Outman is faring with some extended playing time at the big league level.