Yasiel Puig was the subject of trade rumors earlier in the offseason following his inauspicious 2015 campaign. However, the Los Angeles Dodgers don't seem keen on moving the talented outfielder, especially under new manager Dave Roberts.
Roberts and the Dodgers seemingly hope to recapture Puig's electrifying 2013 campaign when the rookie took the MLB by storm. However, the 25-year-old has been unable to produce at that level in 2014 and 2015. Last year he was hampered by injuries and hit .255/.322/.436 with 30 runs scored, 11 home runs and 38 RBI in just 79 games.
However, Roberts and his new coaching staff hope to make Puig comfortable despite reports suggesting he's not a popular player in the clubhouse.
"Andrew Friedman, the Dodgers' president of baseball operations, praised Puig for reshaping his physique this off-season," writes Andy McCullough of the Los Angeles Times. "Manager Dave Roberts pulled Puig aside for their first in-person meeting and promised him a clean slate in 2016. Kershaw vouched for the stability of his relationship with Puig, while the man himself suggested he and Kershaw needed to sit down during spring training 'just to make sure that we're all on the same page.'"
The fact that Friedman is also pleased with Puig's progress this offseason may further suggest the trade rumors surrounding the outfielder are pretty much dead (at least for now). There was speculation earlier in the offseason that the Dodgers might explore moving the talented, yet embattled player since he carries a lot of value with his high ceiling and team-friendly contract.
But it's possible his value has taken a hit after his poor/limited performance this past season in addition to his alleged involvement in a domestic violence incident with his sister at a Miami bar. The MLB is currently investigating the case, but it's unknown if Puig will be disciplined.
Still, a mere report of an alleged involvement in such a case raises eyebrows. The Dodgers pulled back on a trade for Aroldis Chapman due to his alleged involvement in a domestic violence incident. The case has since been closed by police and the closer will not face criminal charges, but the Yankees are still catching criticism for acquiring the left-hander.
So, while the Dodgers have faith in Puig's future, they also don't seem to have the upper hand in any potential trade talks given the recent circumstances.
Roberts hopes to grant Puig a clean slate for 2016, but the manager may have to wait for the MLB to decide the outfielder's fate.
Otherwise, it appears as if Puig's standing in Los Angeles is improving, especially since manager Don Mattingly and his coaching staff are out of town.
