The 2024 season started unkind to one key player for the Los Angeles Dodgers. Gavin Lux made his return to the big leagues this year after undergoing knee surgery, causing him to miss the entirety of the 2023 season. The year began in nightmare fashion as his performance seemed to be a liability for the team’s success.
A change was imperative to Lux’s role on the team. A mindset and performance shift was made at the All-Star break, leading a completely new Lux to emerge. He has now become one of the top hitters on the team, producing great numbers and leading his team to victory as of late. Will this version of Lux lead the Dodgers to a World Series?
Lux Since the All-Star Break
On Wednesday night, Lux played a key role in the Dodgers 10-8 victory over the Chicago Cubs. In a tied game in the bottom of the seventh inning, Lux stepped up to the plate. With runners on first and third, he smashed a line-drive base hit to center field, scoring Will Smith. His ability to produce with runners in scoring position has become the common narrative surrounding the young middle infielder.
The change in Lux’s performance can be traced back to the All-Star break. Since the break, he is batting .317 with a total of 23 RBIs in 47 games. He has become one of Los Angeles Dodgers’ most aggressive and productive hitters late in the season. Overall, he is batting .251/.311/.390
In a post-game interview with manager, Dave Roberts, he shared his thoughts on Lux’s current state. “I haven’t seen anything like this. I think there’s a lot of confidence,” stated Roberts. “This is as good as I’ve seen him, I expect him to keep going. I think this is who he is now.”
Though his production has been undeniable, he is still not playing every day. On Tuesday and Wednesday of this week, Lux was not in the lineup as they were facing off against two lefty pitchers. In his place was veteran, Chris Taylor, who has been battling his struggles this year. Taylor, having one of his worst seasons yet, is slashing .176/.279/.264.
Lux’s Frightful First Half
Lux’s performance in the first half of the season for the Dodgers was less than satisfactory. He returned to the field for the first time since undergoing surgery to repair both his ACL and LCL. The injury had both a physical and mental effect on his game.
The majority of pitches he put in play were weak ground balls to the infield. His approach at the plate was timid and meek. His batting average did not exceed .250 until July. Knowingly or not, the knee injury was affecting the intensity with which Lux performed. A mental shift was needed for him to play at the caliber he’s capable of. During his time off, he watched films of previous at-bats and worked on his aggression at the plate and strength of his swings.
Lux spoke on his approach at the plate following his reinvention and success since July. “I’m taking more chances early. The first two strikes are mine to do damage on,” said Lux. “I think I always believed in myself and that I would eventually figure it out.”
Lux and Los Angeles Moving Forward
As the season quickly approaches the end, Lux will be a valuable asset heading into playoffs. The Dodgers are now 87-59, second in MLB to the Philadelphia Phillies. The Dodgers are facing off in Atlanta tonight versus the Braves as they aim to gain more traction in the NL West. A series win for Los Angeles is needed to gain momentum after a tough series against the Cubs.
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