Popular Philadelphia Phillies third baseman Michael Young has been dealt to the Los Angeles Dodgers after less than one full season with Philly. The Dodgers acquired Young for LHP Rob Rasmussen and cash considerations.
Young was hitting.272 with eight home runs and 41 RBIs. Young spent the first 13 seasons of his MLB career with the Texas Rangers but was traded as the team attempted to make way for younger players that include Adrian Beltre, Elvis Andrus, Ian Kinsler, and Jurickson Profar.
The Phillies originally targeted Young for acquisition because of his versatility. Young is effective in the No. 2 hole, in the middle of the lineup, and even as a pinch hitter.
Young has experience in various positions but played primarily at third base this season. Versatility is important as players wear down towards the end of the season. Young is relatively effective at second based and while playing shortstop. Young can even get the job done in middle infield when asked to contribute.
At 36-years-old Michael Young isn’t getting any younger, but his ability to jump in where needed could really benefit a Los Angeles team that is fighting for a playoff spot.
While Young isn’t likely to win an MLB MVP these days, he does have six career 200-hit seasons, and he has proven his willingness to do whatever it takes to get on base and score for his team.
During career playoff games Young has batted.248 with three home runs and 19 RBIs. Those numbers arrived by way of two playoff runs and one wildcard game last season against the Baltimore Orioles.
Young will become a free agent at the end of the season, which means he is now fighting for his first World Series ring and the continuation of his MLB career.
There’s something to be said for veteran experience as a team heads towards a playoff appearance and World Series run.
Are you happy to see Michael Young traded to the Los Angeles Dodgers ?