(Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
Earlier today, Manny Ramirez was suspended 50 games by Major League Baseball for use of banned performance-enhancing drugs. This means that Ramirez will be out of the Los Angeles Dodgers lineup until the beginning of July.
What does this mean for the Dodger's vacancy in left field?
There are two likely candidates to replace Ramirez in left field: Juan Pierre and Xavier Paul.
Juan Pierre
Pierre is a proven outfielder on the major league level. He is a speedster on the base paths and has an upside in runs scored and batting average.
In each of the last eight seasons, Pierre has had at least 40 stolen bases and has hit around the .300 BA line. He has filled in two games for Ramirez in left field already this season.
He should be put into the lead-off spot which will make him a threat to score runs and steal a good amount of bases. As long as he starts on a consistent basis, he is a viable outfield option in all fantasy leagues.
Xavier Paul
Paul is a 24-year-old lefty, who was called up today, from Triple-A Albuquerque, to replace Ramirez on the active roster.
Through 25 Triple-A games, he has a stat-line of .344 BA, 10 R, 2 HR, 14 RBI and 8 SB. If he can translate these numbers to the major league level, it will be hard to deny him left field.
If he gets the nod in left field, expect him to hit towards the bottom of the order and expect plenty of RBI opportunities in that high scoring offense.
If you are looking for outfield help, Pierre is the better pick-up at this time. But keep an eye out for Paul if Pierre can't get the job done.
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