Chris Heisey Is The Bridge Between Ethier And Pederson

Heisey represents buying time for Pederson without adding controversy like Ethier’s presence undoubtedly would do. Heisey isn’t competing to become the starter, and the Dodgers aren’t paying him (just $2 million this year) to expect that, either. But where Ethier’s presence is drawing competition speculation, Heisey allows Pederson the opportunity to take lumps and develop without who’s-gonna-win-the-job controversy.

It’s hard enough to be a highly touted minor leaguer new to a big league roster; it’s doubly hard in an aggressive media market with a vocal veteran breathing down your neck for playing time. If the Dodgers truly believe Pederson is the center fielder of the future, and every indication shows they do, it’s on them to eliminate distractions and controversies from his development.

Heisey is a capable line-holder and will still have value once Pederson takes the everyday reins. Flexibility is paramount on National League clubs, and anyone who can do multiple things fairly well is a critical bench asset. Heisey plateaued in Cincinnati, but as a Dodger his success will come differently. He won’t be an All Star or wow anyone like Puig, and he’s not an everyday solution. But while his acquisition was forgotten in the offseason flurry of moves, Heisey is a critical part of the Dodgers’ success.

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