Roster Shakeup
In a decisive move during spring training, the Los Angeles team reassigned five players to minor league camp. The adjustments include catchers Griffin Lockwood-Powell and Chris Okey, alongside infielders Alex Freeland, Austin Gauthier and Kody Hoese. With these changes, the team now has 52 players remaining in Major League camp.
Catcher Insights
Griffin Lockwood-Powell, 27, has been an integral part of the spring training efforts by stepping in at first base during a period when the team’s usual lineup was disrupted. The South Dakota native, who signed as an undrafted free agent from Central Michigan in August 2021, recorded a batting average of .235 and contributed two RBIs in 17 at-bats. Chris Okey, who has made several major league appearances—spanning contests with the Cincinnati Reds and the Los Angeles Angels—joined the organization on a minor league deal last season. His recent stint with the Triple-A affiliate in Oklahoma City saw him posting a .236 average, further reflecting his ongoing development.
Infield Prospect Performance
Alex Freeland, 23, a promising shortstop drafted in the third round two years ago, had a notable 2024 season despite certain challenges. Initially starting at High-A Great Lakes, he later transitioned to Triple-A Oklahoma City after spending considerable time at Double-A Tulsa. His performance was marked by a .260 batting average accompanied by an impressive on-base and slugging display, including 18 home runs and 31 stolen bases across 136 games.
Austin Gauthier, 25, demonstrated consistency in his role at the Triple-A level with 106 appearances in 2024. His performance, highlighted by a .247 average and a strong OPS of .685, included 22 extra-base hits. Despite limited time at third base during the season, he has amassed a notable innings tally at the position with minimal errors, reflecting his reliability and adaptability.
Kody Hoese, a first-round selection in the 2019 Draft, has faced challenges in establishing consistency within the minors. His brief exposure with the team saw him record a .250 average over 20 at-bats, underscoring the hurdles he must overcome to secure a regular role.
Looking Ahead
This roster realignment reflects the organization’s strategic focus on optimizing its major league camp while continuing to nurture and evaluate its pool of prospects. The adjustments showcase the balance between immediate performance contributions and long-term developmental investments, a dynamic that will be central to the team’s progression through the season.
