“He will be back”; “Still has that sweet compact swing” - Dodgers fans remain optimistic amid James Outman’s demotion to the minors

The Los Angeles Dodgers made some interesting roster moves on Friday that sent outfielder James Outman into the minors. It was a surprising but understandable move given that Jason Heyward was returning from an injury and they needed to make a place for him.

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts mentioned this being a tough decision but given Outman's struggles at the plate (.147), and Andy Pages performing well, the move wasn't unexpected.

"I don't think any of us expected to be in this position given last year and then our expectations for him this season," Roberts told LA Times. "But with the inconsistencies, the struggles, Jason coming back, [Andy Pages'] play the last six weeks, we just felt that James needed an opportunity to go down and play every day.

Fans were also surprised by the decision but expressed optimism about him returning to the major league roster.

"He will be back, i just hope he can find some consistency when he returns," one fan wrote.

"He'll be ok, it's gotten into his head. Still has that sweet, compact swing," another quipped.

"Yes, he will be back. The main reason is Vargas will fail miserably and Chris taylor is no longer major league baseball player," another added.

However, some fans think Outman may be traded or may not return if Miguel Vargas continues to perform.

"Not for a long time. He would have to find his swing again and someone would have to get hurt. Wouldn’t be shocked if he’s in AAA the rest of the season," another wrote.

"Package him and CT3 for a shut down reliever come July. He's overrated and not needed," one fan posted.

"All on him to start hitting and then he has to see what Vargas does as well. Pages is here to stay," another wrote.

Dave Roberts is optimistic about James Outman's return

MLB: James Outman discussing with Dave Roberts

The conditions for being on the best roster in the majors are simple: perform and you'll be celebrated. The Dodgers are certainly one of the best and that's why Roberts cited performance as the main criteria if James Outman were to come back.

"There's something to getting out of this environment, performance-based, and just going out there and playing baseball. Once we can get him back on track, we'll get him back here," Roberts said.

For Outman, the only plausible way to return is to perform exceedingly well in the minors to earn his position back on the roster.