MLB Network completed their series of the top 10 players right now at each position. While they seemed to get some rankings right, others may have missed the mark entirely. Los Angeles had a representative in every position except left field as well as for relievers. For those that did have a representative, they’re listed down below.
Starting Pitchers
Clayton Kershaw, Rank: No. 7
Walker Buehler, Rank: No. 10
Despite a decline from his prime years, Kershaw has shown the baseball world that he ind’t finished. With the help of Driveline, the 32-year old added 1.2 MPH on his fastball which proved to be beneficial as he enjoyed a resurgent season. Walker Buehler has shown that he excels in the limelight. If it weren’t for one of the best pitchers in the game of baseball, Buehler would be the No. 1 guy on the pitching staff. Although he boasts a lot of talent, he wasn’t given enough respect as he barely managed to crack the list. For more on the story click here.
Catchers
Will Smith, Rank: No. 3
Since his debut, Will Smith has become one of the better offensive catchers in the game and even took himself deep in the NLCS. By the end of this past season, his bat was so crucial that Dave Roberts turned to him as the DH whenever he wasn’t behind the plate. While he may still have some room to grow with his game calling, there’s little doubt that his name could be at No. 1 slot in the near future. For more on the story click here.
First Basemen
Max Muncy, Rank: No. 5
From a failed big leaguer with the Oakland Athletics to a World Series champion with the Dodgers, Muncy has surely had quite the journey. His sudden click at the plate has become a big component in this Dodgers offense. He’s already 30-years old but should have more than enough in the tank for a couple more seasons of solid production. For more on the story click here.
Second Basemen
Chris Taylor, Rank: No. 8
This brings a little shock as Taylor hasn’t had a set position for the Dodgers, instead rotating throughout the field wherever the team needs him. With only 67 appearances at the position, MLB Network decided to rank him 8th. Gavin Lux will be given another opportunity to seize the position, but if he’s deemed unfit, Taylor should be in line to see a lot of playing time there. For more on the story click here.
Shortstops
Corey Seager, Rank: No. 6
The NLCS and World Series MVP ranked 6th? At first glance it just seems straight out disrespectful. However, Seager has been hampered with injuries over the past couple of seasons which is the biggest hit to his ranking. If he can just stay healthy, he’s easily a top 3 shortstop. For more on the story click here.
Center Fielders
Cody Bellinger, Rank: No. 2
Bellinger did not have the season fans were expecting after being named the 2019 NL MVP. However, that didn’t affect his ranking at all. What may have saved him is his athleticism in the outfield as well as the power in his left-handed swing when he is able to connect. Struggles aside, Bellinger still boasts a lot of talent to turn thing around in 2021. For more on the story click here.
Right Fielders
Mookie Betts, No. 1
Was there ever any doubt? Mookie Betts proved that he should be considered for the best all around player in the game. The 28-year old enjoyed an outstanding season in which he finished second in NL MVP voting. His ability to sway the fate of a game in just about every way imaginable should make him the best player in the game today, if there wasn’t a guy in the way with the name Mike Trout. For more on the story click here.
Others: Justin Turner, No. 6 Third Baseman
8 total Dodgers cracked the top 10 at their positions and it could potentially climb to 9 if Los Angeles is able to re-sign Justin Turner. Los Angeles has lost several players who played key parts in them ending a 32-year drought, but this list just shows they have the talent to repeat again. Despite the talent and depth that the Dodgers possess, defending their title will be a tall task to complete.
