Dodgers outfielder Cody Bellinger didn’t get the start in center field on Saturday night against the Padres, despite San Diego sending right-handed pitcher Joe Musgrove to the mound. Instead, L.A. manager Dave Roberts chose to go with Trayce Thompson in center and Chris Taylor in left.
The decision was partly based on career number against Musgrove, as Bellinger is just 2-for-17 in his career against the righty. Musgrove also has reverse splits, meaning even though he’s a right-handed pitcher, right-handed hitters have better number against him on the season.
Still, it was a striking decision considering that Bellinger was the National League Most Valuable Player just three years ago and he’s only 27 years old, an age where he should be in his prime.