Will Brian Dozier Rebound in Washington? That Could Depend on Bryce Harper

The Washington Nationals have signed free agent second baseman Brian Dozier to a one year contract worth $9 million.


Dozier struggled in 2018 which he began with the Minnesota Twins before being traded on July 31st to the Los Angeles Dodgers. While Dozier got to play in his very first World Series, his post-season numbers were inconsequential going 2 for 16 with 2 RBIs. In a combined 151 regular season games, Dozier hit a career low .215 with his batting average falling 56 points from 2017. Dozier's power numbers were decent (21 HR, 72 RBI), but a far cry from his 42 HR and 99 RBI in 2016 or even his 34 HR and 93 RBI in 2017. Does Dozier simply need to make adjustments? Or is Dozier, who turns 32 in May, now past his prime?


A lot of it depends on whether the Nats can re-sign Bryce Harper. If Dozier hits behind Harper he is going to see a lot of good pitches. There is a belief that Harper will remain in D.C despite turning down $300 million back in November. But let us assume Harper goes elsewhere. Will Dozier see pitches if he bats behind Juan Soto or Anthony Rendon?


Then again, with Dozier's contract being for one season and for deferred money, this signing isn't taking a big risk. If Dozier doesn't rebound in 2019 it won't be the end of world for the Washington Nationals amidst all the chaos in Washington, D.C.