.451 OPS for June, ouch. Not sure how to see his recent stats against lefties only. Looks like he has the Outman role of pinch runner, defensive replacement only. Hopefully Martin gets optioned for Roden so he can get regular playing time at AAA.
And/or Martin too. Dodgers pitcher does not have reverse splits. I am really pulling for Austin Martin but why is he on the roster if he isn't facing lefty starter?
With the lower velocity could Ober be a "rubber arm" that leads the staff in innings pitched? Does his odds of injury decrease along with his velocity?
Playing time is the key issue in my opinion. Even though Rodriguez is more valuable I am fine with Outman making the 26 man roster to start the season because Rodriguez or any of the better prospects need to play every day. Outman can be used off the bench as needed. Sooner than we'd like a starting outfield spot will open up.
This is true of all teams, the best players generally play SS but when they are drafted and play on much more competitive teams many of them switch positions. Teams draft a lot of SS that they know will not end up there.