Part of a series of articles previewing the defensive performance of all 30 MLB teams by asking the question … are they good? To see the full series, click here.

2024 Defensive Runs Saved Rank: 3rd

Team Strengths

The biggest strength for the Dodgers isn’t necessarily a player but rather their defensive positioning. The Dodgers aggressively move both their infielders and outfielders and the payoff is that they give their players a better chance to make defensive plays. Last year 51 of their 66 Runs Saved came from positioning.

The Dodgers’ best defensive player actually comes off the bench, shortstop Miguel Rojas. Over the last four seasons he leads all players at the position in Runs Saved, though he’ll be behind starting shortstop Mookie Betts.

Another strength is the Dodgers’ multi-positional flexibility. Tommy Edman can play center field, second base, and shortstop and play them all well. Betts is capable at shortstop and has a great track record in right field. Rojas has at least 80 games of experience at each infield position. Chris Taylor and Kiké Hernandez can play anywhere on the field.

Team Weaknesses

If someone isn’t working out at a position, the Dodgers have the flexibility to move him off that spot pretty quickly. An exception is catcher where – after four straight seasons with a positive Runs Saved – Will Smith totaled -4 Runs Saved, rating below average in both strike getting and pitch blocking. The 2024 season was the first time since 2014 that the Dodgers catchers finished with a negative Runs Saved.

However, it’s not all bad. Smith threw out 28% of baserunners trying to steal on him, one of the better rates in the majors. The alternative at catcher, Austin Barnes, is a good defender but allowed 48 steals against only 3 caught stealing last season.

Other Things To Know

The Dodgers will try Hye-Seong Kim, formerly of the KBO, at second base at some point this season. He’ll start the year in the minors. Kim’s defense, very good by KBO standards, translates to MLB average or thereabouts.

Are The Dodgers A Good Defensive Team?

Yes, though it’s more the product of their defensive system than it is the skill of their players. It works very well though, so it’s hard to argue with.