The Los Angeles Dodgers’ minor league free agent pool has seen some notable players in recent seasons, including Sauryn Lao and Drew Avans, among others. These players, while not household names like those in the major league system, have nevertheless shown potential and can make an impact for the organization in the future.
### Sauryn Lao
Sauryn Lao is an intriguing outfielder who signed with the Dodgers in 2021 after a stint in the independent leagues. Lao has the tools to contribute, with solid speed and an above-average arm. Known for his defensive skills, he has the potential to become a versatile outfield option with the ability to cover a variety of positions in the field. At the plate, Lao has shown flashes of power but has struggled with consistency. His time in the minors has been marked by streaky hitting, with moments where his bat heats up, but he has yet to prove he can put it all together over a full season. As a minor league free agent, Lao is looking for an opportunity to prove he can stick at higher levels of the minors and perhaps break into a major league roster down the line, especially as the Dodgers tend to take a patient, developmental approach with their minor league players.
### Drew Avans
Drew Avans is another interesting player in the Dodgers’ minor league system. Avans, primarily an outfielder, has been known for his speed, defensive ability, and high on-base percentage. Though not a huge power threat, his ability to get on base and wreak havoc on the basepaths has made him a useful player in the minors. Avans’ speed has often led to solid numbers in stolen bases, and his ability to play center field means he could provide valuable depth for the Dodgers in a utility role. Avans spent time at various levels of the minors, including Double-A and Triple-A, and while he has shown flashes of being a potential major league contributor, he’s yet to secure a full-time role. If he can refine his hitting and continue to show his versatility in the outfield, Avans could provide some depth for the Dodgers in the future.
### Other Minor League Free Agents
The Dodgers’ minor league free agent pool includes several other players who, like Lao and Avans, could contribute to the organization in 2024 and beyond. Some of the most notable among them are depth pitchers and corner infielders who have spent time at Triple-A or Double-A in recent seasons. While these players may not generate the same level of attention as top-tier prospects, they serve as important organizational depth.
The Dodgers have been known for their ability to develop and find hidden gems among minor league free agents, so players who may have struggled elsewhere can sometimes turn into valuable assets. Whether it’s a pitcher with an untapped breaking ball or a position player who improves his plate discipline, the Dodgers’ player development system has a strong track record of getting the most out of minor league talent.
### Conclusion
The minor league free agents in the Dodgers system, including players like Sauryn Lao and Drew Avans, represent a mix of potential and depth. While none of these players are likely to make immediate impacts at the major league level, they could become important contributors to the team’s organizational depth or even emerge as surprise call-ups. For now, their future with the Dodgers depends on continued development and the opportunity to prove themselves at higher levels of competition.
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