How the Dodgers Might Use a More Flexible Lineup in 2025 Now That Gavin Lux Is Gone

The Los Angeles Dodgers have established themselves as one of Major League Baseball’s most consistent and innovative teams in recent years. Part of their success has been rooted in flexibility—whether it’s making adjustments mid-game, using versatile players, or constructing a lineup that adapts to various matchups. With the unexpected and unfortunate loss of Gavin Lux to a season-ending injury before the start of the 2025 season, the Dodgers may need to adopt an even more flexible lineup in order to maintain their competitive edge.

Gavin Lux was widely expected to become a key figure in the Dodgers’ infield, capable of playing multiple positions with strong offensive potential. However, his absence opens up both challenges and opportunities for the team’s strategic planning. This article explores how the Dodgers could use a more flexible lineup in 2025 in response to Lux’s injury, incorporating their depth, versatile roster, and strategic outlook for the season.

1. Understanding Gavin Lux’s Role in 2025

Before diving into potential lineup changes, it’s important to consider what Gavin Lux was supposed to contribute to the 2025 Dodgers. Lux, a former top prospect, had developed into a reliable option at second base, where he showcased solid defense and an improving bat. After years of moving between positions, it seemed as though 2025 would be the year when he found consistency, especially in a regular starting role. Lux was also seen as an important part of the team’s flexibility, with the ability to slide into shortstop when needed or even take over at third base if necessary.

2. Filling the Void: Exploring Internal Options

With Lux out, the Dodgers’ management will likely turn to a combination of internal players to fill the void. Fortunately, the team boasts a depth of position players who are capable of stepping into various roles. There are a few key names to consider in filling the infield positions.

A. Mookie Betts—Superstar and Versatile Veteran

One of the most obvious solutions is moving Mookie Betts from the outfield to the infield on occasion. Betts has demonstrated the ability to handle different positions throughout his career, playing both second base and shortstop with ease in addition to his staple right field position. While Betts has been a fixture in right field for the Dodgers, he has the tools to seamlessly transition into the infield, especially with his high baseball IQ and strong defensive instincts.

If the Dodgers want to experiment with a more flexible lineup, Betts could split his time between right field and second base, allowing other players to rotate through the outfield and infield positions. This could also enable the Dodgers to keep Betts fresh while maintaining his elite bat in the lineup. With the team looking to maintain flexibility, Betts could easily slide into a variety of roles, even if it’s just for a few games a week.

B. Chris Taylor—The Ultimate Utility Player

Chris Taylor is the prototypical “utility player” who can provide the Dodgers with considerable flexibility. Known for his ability to play virtually any position on the diamond, Taylor has the experience and skill set to help mitigate the loss of Lux. In 2025, he could be used as the primary option to fill the void at second base or potentially shortstop, given his past performance at both positions.

In addition to second base and shortstop, Taylor could even see some time at third base or in the outfield. His versatility allows the Dodgers to mix and match their lineup on any given day, depending on matchups or player rest. This flexibility could be particularly useful against teams with varying pitching rotations, as Taylor’s presence would give the team an ability to experiment with different alignments while maintaining solid defensive play.

C. Miguel Vargas—A Young, Intriguing Option

Miguel Vargas has been on the Dodgers’ radar for several seasons, and 2025 could be the year when he breaks through as a regular contributor. Primarily seen as a third baseman, Vargas has the potential to be more flexible in the infield, particularly with the loss of Lux. While Vargas is not as established as some of the other options, he has shown promise with both the bat and glove during his minor league career and brief appearances with the Dodgers.

Vargas could see time at second base or even shortstop, depending on how the lineup shakes out. His ability to provide a reliable bat—especially against right-handed pitching—could make him a key part of the Dodgers’ everyday lineup. With Lux out, Vargas could become an important player in providing depth and flexibility, giving manager Dave Roberts the option to mix and match based on various scenarios.

3. The Need for a More Rotational Lineup

Given the loss of Lux and the versatility of the available players, the Dodgers could embrace a rotational lineup in 2025. The concept of a rotational lineup revolves around ensuring that key players get enough rest while maintaining consistent production from every position. This would be crucial for players like Mookie Betts, Freddie Freeman, and Will Smith, who could benefit from periodic rest without sacrificing performance.

The Dodgers’ depth in both the infield and outfield allows them to rotate players through different positions. For example, Betts could play second base for a series, then return to right field for a few games, while other players, such as Taylor or Vargas, take on second base duties. This rotation would allow the team to stay fresh and healthy throughout the long season.

Additionally, a rotational lineup provides flexibility in dealing with injury concerns. If another player goes down at some point during the season, the Dodgers could seamlessly shift their existing players into new roles, mitigating the loss without losing too much in terms of production.

4. Positionless Baseball: Embracing the Trends of 2025

The Dodgers have long been on the cutting edge of baseball trends, and one of the most prominent shifts in recent years has been the move toward “positionless” baseball. With more emphasis being placed on lineup flexibility and player versatility, teams have embraced players who can fill multiple roles, from infield to outfield to even spot-starting on the mound. For the Dodgers, this trend could become even more pronounced in 2025.

The team’s front office and analytics department have prioritized defensive versatility for years, and their roster reflects this philosophy. As the season progresses, we could see players shift between positions based on matchup advantages or the opposing pitcher’s handedness. For example, Taylor could start at second base, then shift to shortstop for a particular matchup. Similarly, Vargas or even Freeman might get a start at second base to provide a different look against left-handed pitching.

This type of flexibility would also allow the Dodgers to adapt their lineup depending on the specific needs of any given game. As teams continue to rely on platoons and specialized matchups, having a roster full of positionless players is a significant advantage in building a competitive lineup.

5. Building the Ideal Lineup Without Gavin Lux

The loss of Lux means that the Dodgers may need to rethink how they structure their lineup for 2025. Here’s a potential starting lineup that prioritizes flexibility and depth:

1. Mookie Betts (2B / RF) – Betts could alternate between second base and right field, providing leadoff production and elite defense wherever he plays.
2. Freddie Freeman (1B) – Freeman’s bat is key to the Dodgers’ offensive success, and his ability to hold down first base is invaluable.
3. Will Smith (C) – As one of the best catchers in baseball, Smith’s bat and defensive reliability provide stability.
4. Max Muncy (3B / 1B) – Muncy’s power is crucial in the middle of the order, and his ability to play both first and third adds value.
5. Chris Taylor (Utility / 2B / SS) – Taylor will be crucial in filling in at second base or shortstop while also being able to play multiple positions in the outfield.
6. Miguel Vargas (2B / 3B) – A young bat with a lot of upside, Vargas could see significant playing time at multiple infield spots.
7. David Peralta (LF) – Peralta, with his veteran presence, could provide leadership and stability in the outfield.
8. James Outman (CF) – Outman’s speed and bat will be an essential part of the Dodgers’ lineup, especially with Lux’s absence.