DENVER — A phrase – and concept – the Dodgers’ decision-makers use often is “net sum.” When everything is “baked in” – another favorite buzzword – is the result a negative or positive?
The math seems obvious after Teoscar Hernandez’s defense in right field proved costly again Monday night. Wouldn’t the Dodgers be better off – net sum-wise – with Mookie Betts back in right field, Hernandez in left field (where he was also below average defensively last season but not as damaging), Michael Conforto and his 76 OPS-plus (100 is league average) on the bench and some combination of Miguel Rojas and Alex Freeland at shortstop?
“That’s a fair question,” Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said. “I think that’s a fair question. But I don’t think we’re there yet.”
Part of the reason they are not there y