PT TOMORROW: NL West—Who's behind the plate in Dodgerland?

Los Angeles Dodgers

The somewhat surprising news out of Dodgers camp is that after essentially overtaking the catching duties throughout the 2017 playoffs, Austin Barnes (C/2B, LA) appears destined to enter the season as the back-up to last year’s Opening Day starter, Yasmani Grandal (C, LA).

Barnes made a splash last year, especially in the fantasy community, where his top-shelf plate discipline (80% ct%, 15% bb%), speed (115 Spd, 4-for-5 on the basepaths) and lack of platoon splits (.886 OPS vs LHP, .902 OPS vs RHP) in 218 at-bats had all the makings of a top-flight catcher.

But according to manager Dave Roberts, the 29-year-old switch-hitting Grandal, a free agent at the end of the season, will likely get the majority of at-bats...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From PT Tomorrow

Maikel Garcia's injury has opened up some playing time in KC, with a quartet of players who might take advantage. Plus, a new position for CHW prospect Caleb Bonemer, struggling hitters in CLE, struggling relievers in MIN, and Drew Anderson's future in DET.
Sep 3 2026 3:05am
Ben Joyce has been locked in as the Angels closer of late, but who's next if some control issues linger for Joyce?
Sep 2 2026 3:07am
Trevor Story is expected to be Boston's primary shortstop upon his return from the IL, but could his opportunity be short-lived if his season-long struggles continue? Plus, a potential SB source in TB, SP in BAL/BOS, and a post-hype prospect making waves for NYY.
Sep 1 2026 3:05am
This week, we check in on young infielders with upside in S.F. and Arizona, are reintroduced to an old NL West friend in L.A.
Aug 29 2026 3:05am
Luke Adams, Cooper Hjerpe, Owen Ayers, and BJ Murray may be among the guys called up to make their MLB debut in the NL Central
Aug 28 2026 3:05am

Tools