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

In addition to the Fernando Tatis conundrum, we take a close look at the playing time outlook for recent Giants' call-ups and turn our attention to a surprisingly impactful Arizona veteran SP.
May 23 2026 3:07am
A new injury on top of Kyle Teel's previous one may open up new opportunity for a White Sox catcher. Plus, paths to more playing time for Kyle Manzardo, injury returns in DET, SP depth in KC, and the struggles of Brooks Lee in MIN.
May 21 2026 3:05am
The Mariners added Brennen Davis to the 40-man roster, moving him one step closer to joining the team.
May 20 2026 3:06am
Mickey Gasper has taken a prominent spot in Boston's struggling lineup and is flashing some interesting skills. Plus, Spencer Jones' early struggles could necessitate change for NYY, and more.
May 19 2026 3:05am

Tools