The Los Angeles Dodgers are set to sign Keston Hiura to a minor league deal, according to Jon Heyman of the New York Post. This move is particularly intriguing given Hiura's recent struggles and the Dodgers' depth at the plate. But here's where it gets controversial... Is the Dodgers' decision to sign Hiura a smart move, or are they making a mistake by overlooking other options? Let's dive in and explore the pros and cons of this potential deal.
Keston Hiura, a 29-year-old first baseman, has had a rollercoaster career in the MLB. After being drafted by the Milwaukee Brewers in 2017, he quickly rose through the ranks, showcasing his power at the plate. However, his strikeout rate has been a persistent issue, jumping to 34.6% in the shortened 2020 season. This trend continued in 2021 and 2022, with Hiura's strikeout rate ballooning to 39.1% and 41.7%, respectively. Despite his prodigious power numbers, Hiura has struggled to find consistency at the plate.
The Dodgers, known for their strong roster, might be taking a risk by signing Hiura. While he has performed well in the minors, his struggles in the MLB cannot be ignored. The question remains: Can the Dodgers' coaching staff help Hiura overcome his contact issues and become a consistent contributor at the major league level? Or is this a case of the Dodgers overlooking other, more reliable options?
What do you think? Do you agree with the Dodgers' decision to sign Hiura, or do you think they should have explored other options? Share your thoughts in the comments below and let's spark a discussion!