Context:

The Los Angeles Dodgers are considering repositioning Mookie Betts amidst ongoing lineup issues, particularly due to Michael Conforto's poor performance in left field with a batting average of .153. With several players such as Tommy Edman and Teoscar Hernández sidelined due to injuries, the team is exploring various lineup adjustments to enhance their performance. One suggestion is to promote Alex Freeland from Triple-A to play shortstop, allowing Betts to return to the outfield where he has previously excelled. Hyeseong Kim, who is currently filling in at multiple positions and hitting .318, offers additional flexibility and could temporarily replace Conforto if needed. The Dodgers have multiple strategic options available, including utilizing Edman and Kim in different infield roles while considering a temporary shift for Betts back to the outfield to address current lineup deficiencies.

Dive Deeper:

• The Dodgers are facing challenges in their lineup due to Michael Conforto's struggles at the plate, with a batting line of .153/.291/.246, which has prompted discussions about potential changes involving Mookie Betts.

• Injuries to key players like Tommy Edman and Teoscar Hernández have forced the Dodgers to experiment with their lineup, using players such as Hyeseong Kim in various roles, including second base and outfield positions.

• Hyeseong Kim has been performing well with a batting average of .318 and speed on the bases, providing the Dodgers with a versatile option who can fill in at multiple positions depending on team needs.

• One potential solution involves calling up Alex Freeland, who is currently excelling in Triple-A with a .290 average and an OPS of .825, to play shortstop and moving Betts back to the outfield.

• Max Muncy's recent improvement in performance, hitting .278 in his last five games, adds another layer of complexity to lineup decisions, as the team considers how best to utilize their available players.

• The Dodgers are exploring various configurations to maximize their lineup efficiency, including the possibility of Edman playing third base and Kim competing for second base, while keeping Betts available for a return to the outfield.

• With the current lineup challenges and injuries, a temporary move for Betts back to the outfield is being considered as a practical solution to address both defensive and offensive needs, even before Freeland's potential call-up.

• The Los Angeles Dodgers have no shortage of superstars on their team, but still have some holes in their lineup. They could explore a move with Mookie Betts to fix things.

• Michael Conforto is slashing a career worst .153/.291/.246 playing in left field. The Dodgers will have to make some sort of decision soon if they want to improve. FanSided's Sam Phalen suggested the team could call up Alex Freeland to play shortstop and move Betts back to the outfield.

• "Freeland is now hitting .290 with an OPS of .825 at Triple-A this season," wrote Phalen. "He’s 23 years old and knocking on the door of the major leagues. He is also proving to be an impressive defensive shortstop, showing range to both sides with plus arm strength."

• It is worth noting that the Dodgers are not at full strength right now. Tommy Edman and Teoscar Hernández are currently injured. That has led to Hyeseong Kim playing second base with Andy Pages, Conforto and James Outman getting outfield starts. Kim has also made a start in center field, but has primarily been used off the bench and as a second baseman.

• Kim is hitting .318 and provides some real speed on the bases. When Edman returns, Kim could be a replacement for Conforto in the outfield, but calling up Freeland could solve more than one problem for the Dodgers. Calling up Freeland could allow Betts to play in the outfield, leaving Edman and Kim fighting for second base.

• However, with Edman and Kim both available, the Dodgers could use Edman at third base, replacing Max Muncy, who has also struggled greatly. Muncy is showing signs of life, hitting .278 in his last five games, so perhaps Kim stays on the bench in this scenario, but moving Betts to the outfield would solve the Conforto problem for the Dodgers. 

• Betts has moved around the field pretty seamlessly in his career. A move back to the outfield would not be too difficult for him. The Dodgers have options now with Kim playing well, so they could explore moving Betts even if they do not call up Freeland.

• "With Hernández on the Injured List and Conforto struggling at the plate, I wouldn’t hate seeing Betts move back to the outfield temporarily, either, well before Freeland's arrival," wrote Phalen.

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