Tommy Edman, the Dodgers’utility player and 2024 NLCS MVP, has been struggling at the plate since returning from the injured list. Manager Dave Roberts has addressed the situation, suggesting that Edman’s swing mechanics are the primary cause of his difficulties. This article delves into Roberts’s assessment, Edman’s recent performance, and what the Dodgers might do to help him regain his form.
Edman’s decline in performance is a concern for the Dodgers, especially as they aim for back-to-back World Series titles. Understanding the root cause of his struggles is crucial for the team’s success. Roberts’s insights into Edman’s swing mechanics provide a starting point for addressing the issue and getting Edman back on track.
This analysis will cover Roberts’s comments on Edman’s swing, Edman’s stats before and after his injury, a comparison to Michael Conforto’s situation, and potential steps the Dodgers could take to help Edman improve. We’ll also examine Edman’s underlying metrics to provide additional context.
Edman’s Performance Decline
Since returning from the injured list, Tommy Edman’s batting average has dropped to .148, a significant decrease from his .252 average prior to his time off. This slump has raised concerns about his overall effectiveness at the plate. Roberts noted that Edman’s struggles began even before he went on the IL, indicating a deeper issue than just post-injury rust.
Roberts elaborated on Edman’s challenges, stating,
‘Even a little bit before he went on the IL, I think he wasn’t particularly in a good spot and that’s right-handed and left-handed. I think there’s certainly a lot more chase below from Tommy. There’s a couple little things that he could potentially change I think to get him in a better spot.’
This suggests that Edman has been struggling with his swing and plate discipline, leading to more swings at pitches outside the strike zone.
In the 10 games leading up to his stint on the IL, Edman’s slash line was .211/.273/.421 with an OPS of .694. While these numbers weren’t stellar, they were considerably better than his current output. The contrast highlights the extent of his recent struggles and the need for intervention.
Dave Roberts’s Analysis: Swing Mechanics
Dave Roberts believes that the primary issue with Tommy Edman is his swing mechanics, rather than his physical health. He stated,
‘I think it’s swing mechanics. I don’t think it’s the health part. I think it’s swing mechanics.’
This assessment suggests that Edman’s struggles are rooted in technical aspects of his swing, which can be addressed through coaching and adjustments.
Roberts’s focus on swing mechanics indicates that the Dodgers’ coaching staff will likely work with Edman to refine his technique. This could involve adjustments to his stance, hand position, or swing path. The goal will be to help Edman get back to a consistent and effective swing that allows him to make better contact with the ball.
The emphasis on swing mechanics also implies that the Dodgers are confident in Edman’s overall health and physical condition. By addressing the technical aspects of his swing, they hope to unlock his potential and restore his confidence at the plate.
Comparison to Michael Conforto
Roberts has previously discussed his approach to managing struggling players, citing the example of Michael Conforto. He attributed Conforto’s continued opportunities to the work he has put in to adjust his bat path. This suggests a consistent philosophy within the Dodgers organization to support players who are actively working to improve their performance.
The comparison to Conforto indicates that the Dodgers are willing to give Edman time and resources to work through his struggles. As long as Edman demonstrates a commitment to improving his swing mechanics, he is likely to receive continued opportunities to play and contribute to the team.
However, the Dodgers will also be closely monitoring Edman’s progress. If his struggles persist despite efforts to adjust his swing, the team may need to consider other options. The balance between patience and performance will be a key factor in determining Edman’s role moving forward.
Underlying Metrics and Performance
Despite his struggles, Edman still ranks in the 88th percentile in MLB for percentage of hits at the ideal launch angle (between 8-32 degrees) and on the sweet spot of the bat. However, he is below average in hard-hit percentage, with just 42.7 percent of his hits exceeding 95 mph. This indicates that while he is making good contact, he lacks the power to drive the ball consistently.
These metrics suggest that Edman’s swing adjustments should focus on increasing his bat speed and generating more power. By improving his hard-hit percentage, he can translate his solid contact into more extra-base hits and runs batted in.
The combination of good launch angle and sweet spot contact suggests that Edman has a solid foundation to build upon. With targeted adjustments to his swing mechanics, he has the potential to improve his overall offensive performance and become a more dangerous hitter.
Potential Adjustments and Outlook
Given Roberts’s assessment and Edman’s underlying metrics, the Dodgers will likely focus on refining his swing mechanics to increase his power and consistency. This could involve adjustments to his stance, hand position, or swing path. The goal will be to help Edman generate more bat speed and drive the ball with more authority.
The Dodgers’ organization has a track record of success in helping players improve their swing mechanics. With the right coaching and adjustments, Edman has the potential to regain his form and become a valuable contributor to the team’s offense.
However, it’s important to acknowledge that swing adjustments can take time and effort. Edman will need to be patient and persistent in his work, and the Dodgers will need to provide him with the necessary support and resources. The ultimate success of these adjustments will depend on Edman’s ability to implement the changes and adapt his swing to game situations.
Conclusion: Path Forward for Edman
Tommy Edman’s struggles at the plate are a concern for the Dodgers, but Dave Roberts’s assessment of his swing mechanics provides a clear path forward. By focusing on refining his technique and increasing his power, Edman has the potential to regain his form and become a valuable contributor to the team’s offense.
The Dodgers’ track record of success in helping players improve their swing mechanics suggests that Edman is in good hands. With the right coaching and adjustments, he can overcome his struggles and reach his full potential.
However, the success of these adjustments will depend on Edman’s commitment and persistence. He will need to work diligently to implement the changes and adapt his swing to game situations. As long as he remains focused and dedicated, he has a good chance of turning his season around and helping the Dodgers achieve their goals.
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