Dodgers 2016 Season Previews: Luis Avilan

Luis Avilan could be a key part to the Dodgers’ bullpen in 2016.

The Dodgers surprisingly had their top lefty reliever exercise his player option, leaving Luis Avilan as their second lefty out of the bullpen.

2015 Recap

Avilan was acquired at the deadline in the three-team megatrade that also brought Alex Wood, Mat Latos and Jose Peraza to LA. In 50 appearances with the Braves, Avilan posted a 3.58 ERA/3.66 FIP. In 23 appearances in LA, Avilan posted a lower FIP (3.64), but his ERA rose to 5.17.

Pretty much every number I just typed is often misleading for relievers, doubly so for relievers like Avilan. More often than not, lefty relievers are used in the middle of innings and pulled when…