Dodgers Rookie Michael Busch Shows Promise in Brief MLB Stint, What Comes Next?

Roberts talks Busch.

It was a mixed bag of results for rookie infielder Michael Busch in his first go-round at the big league level. He had just 4 hits in 19 at-bats  (.211) across 7 games over his two week stint with the Dodgers but he made an impression, particularly with his go-ahead RBI single in the 10th inning in last Sunday's victory against the Padres. 

After he was optioned on Friday, manager Dave Roberts praised Busch's composure and adaptability during his time in the majors.

"Michael had a good showing," Doc said recently. "He took full advantage of watching major league players, how the game’s supposed to be played, the intensity, the focus, and I expect him to take that with him and join us at some point this season."

Busch is now back at Triple-A, where he'll continue to work on his game -- especially on the defensive side of things. When and, really, where he makes his next appearance at the big league level is a big question for the Dodgers. He barely had any chances when he was up with LA and doesn't seem to fit on the roster, at least with how it's constructed at the moment.

The 25-year-old is certainly the Dodgers' top position player trade chip heading toward the deadline this year and that's likely his best path to playing time at the MLB level.

It's clear the Dodgers are taking the Tracye Thompson experiment as far as it can go (and then even beyond that). David Peralta and Jason Heyward are playing much better of late and will be lefty swinging fixtures on the roster.

Despite being sent back down, Busch is staying positive and is taking what he learned during his time in the majors with him. 

"I’m just trying to take it one day at a time," said Busch. "I’m getting better every day, and I’m learning a lot. I’m excited for what’s to come."