The Los Angeles Dodgers entered the season with intentions to strengthen their outfield, which attracted attention toward potential acquisitions like Juan Soto and Teoscar Hernández. Instead, the team’s first step came by signing Michael Conforto to a one-year, $17 million deal. Despite their efforts, they were outbid for Soto but successfully regained Hernández, who moved to right field.
There was early optimism that Conforto, coming off a challenging season with the San Francisco Giants, would recover with support from the Dodgers’ coaching staff. However, the veteran has struggled the most in his career so far, increasing pressure on the team as the MLB trade deadline approaches on July 31.
Manager Dave Roberts Emphasizes Importance of Conforto’s Performance
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts addressed the significance of Conforto’s performance in the coming weeks, recognizing his faith in the player while maintaining a broader perspective on team improvement. Speaking with SportsNet LA, Roberts stressed the need for Conforto to focus on continuous progress rather than the looming deadline, saying,
“It’s critical. I think that I’ve shown my faith in him and given him opportunities. Like I said, I think he’s trending in the right direction. But we’re going to continue to look and figure out ways we can get better as a ballclub as we do get closer to the deadline. “But I hope that’s not in his mindset. Just continue to get better each night, but it’s important for him to continue to play well.”
Roberts’ remarks reflect the balancing act the Dodgers face: evaluating trade options while supporting Conforto’s efforts to regain his form.
Conforto’s Recent Performance Offers Signs of Progress
Conforto showed encouraging signs in a recent game at Coors Field, delivering a double and a three-run homer during the Dodgers’ comeback victory. This performance marked his best game of the season, providing him with a modest two-game hitting streak and his first multi-RBI game of the year.
Despite the ongoing struggles, Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman expressed confidence in Conforto’s ability to bounce back. Friedman also indicated that it is unlikely the team will trade for a full-time left fielder before the deadline, signaling faith in Conforto’s potential contributions going forward.
Adjustments to Conforto’s Approach at the Plate
Throughout the season, Conforto has worked closely with the Dodgers’ hitting coaches to address his difficulties, particularly focusing on improving his performance against fastballs. Recently, he has incorporated subtle changes to his batting stance, adding a small leg kick to help with timing and power.
These adjustments reflect Conforto’s determination to overcome a disappointing start and play a key role for the Dodgers during this pivotal stretch of the season.