Once a sixth-round draft pick in 2012 MLB Draft by the Arizona Diamondbacks, journeyman Jake Lamb was signed by the Los Angeles Dodgers in March to a Minor League contract after playing with multiple organizations across the past three seasons.
A career .236 hitter and 2017 All-Star with the Diamondbacks, Lamb began his 2022 season with Triple-A Oklahoma City and did decently across 61 games, batting .290/.395/.537 while capturing 67 hits, including 12 doubles and 15 home runs.
Coupled with a .932 on-base plus slugging percentage and 50 RBI with Oklahoma City, amongst all Triple-A West designated hitters with at least 230 plate appearances, Lamb’s batting average was ranked fourth.
After Zach McKinstry went to the injured list on June 28, Lamb was officially called up to the big leagues and made his Dodgers debut.
Although his time with L.A. was brief, in 25 games Lamb collected 16 hits, including two home runs, while batting .239/.338/.433 with a .771 OPS.
On August 3, Lamb was traded to the Seattle Mariners for a player that would be named later.
In 16 games with Seattle, he hit just .167 across 16 games in 30 at-bats, leading to his release by the club on September 24.
Jake Lamb 2022 highlight
On June 18 while playing for Oklahoma City against the Reno Aces (Diamondbacks affiliate), Lamb collected two home runs in a 2-for-3 performance at the plate in a 7-0 victory. In addition to the two home runs, Lamb walked twice and accounted for three of the OKC Dodgers’ runs.
2023 outlook
While Lamb might not have too many suitors at age 32, he could definitely be signed to a Minor League contract heading into the 2023 season.
Although Lamb might not be getting guaranteed Major League reps at this point in his career, an All-Star appearance just five seasons ago signals that he could perhaps still perform at the big league level.
Despite limited time with the Dodgers and Mariners and this year, his playing ability and impactful contributions signal that Lamb still has the prowess to perform at the highest level.
Are you following Dodger Blue on Instagram? It’s the best way to see exclusive coverage from games and events, get your questions answered, and more!
