Dominican prospect Josué de Paula receives call-up to the Major Leagues with the Dodgers
The Los Angeles Dodgers have made an important strategic decision by promoting the talented Dominican outfielder Josué de Paula from the Double-A level. The 21-year-old joins the big league team to fill the vacancy left by superstar Shohei Ohtani, who has been placed on the 15-day injured list due to discomfort in his right arm.
This opportunity marks a milestone in the career of De Paula, who is considered one of the brightest jewels in the Californian organization’s farm system. The Dominican will join the roster this Friday, just as the team begins a seven-game road trip against Miami and Cincinnati.
A meteoric rise based on results
De Paula’s performance in the minor leagues has been impeccable. During the current Double-A season, he participated in 124 games, posting numbers that support his promotion: a .303 batting average, a .401 on-base percentage, and a .547 slugging percentage. Added to this is his ability to produce power and speed, accumulating 27 home runs and 31 stolen bases.
The Dodgers’ confidence in the young Dominican is absolute. Management has demonstrated its commitment to De Paula’s development, to the point of shielding him from major trade offers during this past summer. His evolution has been constant since he was signed in 2022 for an investment of less than $400,000, becoming today the centerpiece of the franchise’s future.
If tomorrow were a postseason game, I would be in the lineup.
Dave Roberts, Dodgers manager
Shohei Ohtani’s Situation
Shohei Ohtani’s absence is a preventive measure. After missing six of the last seven games, the coaching staff decided to give him the necessary rest to ensure his presence in the postseason. By applying the roster move retroactively, the Japanese star could be back by September 23, which would allow him to participate in the final five games of the regular season.
Manager Dave Roberts was optimistic regarding Ohtani’s recovery, emphasizing that this time away from the diamond will be vital for the player to reach his full physical potential. Meanwhile, all eyes will be on Josué de Paula, who will look to take advantage of these 11 days of action to prove that his talent is ready to shine at the highest level of professional baseball.
