It’s been a long and winding road for the Dodgers’ Yadier Alvarez. Once signed for $16 million, Alvarez took a leave from the team due to a number of issues. One of those was lack of attendance which got him placed on the restricted list back in 2019.
Yadier Alvarez will make his spring debut tomorrow. The right-hander is on the restricted list. He signed for $16 million in July 2015 and has topped out at double-A.
— Jorge Castillo (@jorgecastillo) February 27, 2020
Alvarez, much to the surprise of Dodgers fans, unexpectedly showed up around camp less than two weeks ago. And now, we will finally see him get into game action. The number eleven prospect in their system last year, Alvarez showed that he can touch 101 mph on the radar gun, though control has always been an issue. He issued 44 walks in just 55 innings during the 2018 season.
Yadier Álvarez, former top prospect, spoke to reporters. He has had discipline issues during his unproductive four-season tenure with the Dodgers. He said several times the has been “acting like a child” and resolved to act more professionally. A psychologist helped him, he said.
— Pedro Moura (@pedromoura) February 19, 2020
While the behavior problems are hopefully behind him, the Dodgers also likely face the decision of adding him to the 40-man roster. It was reported this week that in order to get Alvarez into action, Los Angeles would have to complete that move prior to pitching in a game. It is unclear if that stands, or if a move has been made yet.
If the Dodgers manage to get him turned around, Alvarez could be a huge weapon out of the bullpen. With 100+ potential, hitters wouldn’t stand a chance against the trio of Alvarez, Blake Treinen, and Joe Kelly late in games with Kenley locking it down.
