Dodgers Acquire Outfielder Steward Berroa from Blue Jays

LOS ANGELES (AP) — The Los Angeles Dodgers acquired outfielder Steward Berroa from the Toronto Blue Jays for cash considerations on Monday. Berroa was designated for assignment last week after struggling in the majors.

Berroa, who will turn 26 next month, made his Major League debut last year, appearing in 28 games for the Blue Jays. He recorded a .189 batting average with six stolen bases during that time. A product of the Blue Jays’ farm system, Berroa has spent eight years in development, batting .250 with 34 home runs and 207 RBIs at the minor league level.

This season, Berroa started with Triple-A Buffalo, where he had difficulty hitting, posting a .195 average with a .267 on-base percentage and just four RBIs. Although his offense was underwhelming, he stole nine bases in twelve attempts, showcasing his speed that made him a valuable prospect.

Originally signed as an international free agent from Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic in 2016, Berroa displayed noteworthy speed, having stolen over 40 bases in six minor league seasons. He had a career-high 58 steals in 2021. Despite his speed, consistency at the plate remains a concern, as he has never hit more than ten home runs in a single season.

With the Dodgers currently missing outfielders James Outman and Hyeseong Kim due to injuries, Berroa may serve as depth, likely starting in Triple-A again. However, he could also bring his speed to the MLB roster as a pinch-runner or defensive replacement.

As the Dodgers move forward, they expect Berroa’s addition to provide competition and depth within the organization. Dodgers fans hope that any improvements at the plate could turn into a bonus for the team.