TEMPE, Ariz. – The Los Angeles Dodgers added outfielder Jack Suwinski via waivers from the Pittsburgh Pirates on Saturday, addressing a need for outfield depth as they navigate spring training. The move coincided with the placement of veteran utility player Kiké Hernández on the 60-day injured list, a consequence of offseason surgery to repair a torn muscle in his non-throwing arm.
Suwinski, 27, offers a potential power threat from the left side of the plate, having hit 26 home runs in 144 games during the 2023 season. However, his production has dipped since then, leading to his designation for assignment by the Pirates earlier this week to create roster space for free agent signing Marcell Ozuna. He finished last season with a .199/.305/.389 slash line.
The Dodgers’ acquisition of Suwinski comes at a time when their center field situation is somewhat fluid. With Tommy Edman already slated to begin the year on the injured list, the team is looking for options behind projected starter Andy Pages. While Hyeseong Kim has been mentioned as a potential candidate to see time in center, his primary experience is at infield positions. Michael Siani, a defensive specialist, is also on the 40-man roster, but his offensive production hasn’t yet translated to the major league level.
Suwinski’s ability to play all three outfield positions, with a significant portion of his defensive experience – 1,529 2/3 innings – coming in center field, makes him an intriguing option. If he can recapture some of the offensive form he displayed in 2023 during Cactus League play, he could contend for a spot on the Opening Day roster. His career numbers show a strong walk rate (12.3%) but also a high strikeout rate (around 30%), indicative of a “three true outcomes” profile – home runs, strikeouts and walks.
Hernández’s placement on the 60-day IL was not unexpected. He underwent surgery in November and has indicated he anticipates missing up to two months of the regular season. The Dodgers have not provided a specific timeline for his return. Evan Phillips is also on the 60-day IL recovering from Tommy John surgery, meaning he won’t be available until mid-season.
The Dodgers’ outfield appears largely set with Teoscar Hernandez, Andy Pages, and Kyle Tucker expected to fill the everyday roles. Pages, a right-handed hitter, has shown a propensity for success against left-handed pitching (.831 OPS), potentially creating a platoon opportunity. However, his defensive value makes it difficult to remove him from the lineup consistently. Suwinski’s defensive shortcomings – he’s posted -16 Defensive Runs Saved as a center fielder – likely preclude him from being a primary option in that position.
For Suwinski, his best path to making the Dodgers’ roster may be to compete with Alex Call for the role of fourth outfielder. The Pirates’ recent additions of outfielders Jhostynxon Garcia and Jake Mangum, coupled with the signing of Ryan O’Hearn, further limited Suwinski’s opportunities in Pittsburgh. He now has a chance to rebuild his value in a new organization.
While Suwinski’s 2023 breakout season was impressive, his high strikeout rate raised concerns about its sustainability. He demonstrated power and speed, with 26 home runs and 13 stolen bases, but also struck out in 32% of his plate appearances. His rookie year in 2022 also featured a high strikeout rate (30.6%), suggesting a consistent challenge in making contact.
The Dodgers are hoping that a change of scenery and an opportunity to compete for playing time will unlock Suwinski’s potential. The team will be closely evaluating his performance throughout spring training to determine if he can contribute to their roster as they prepare for the 2026 season.
