Jerry Sands Called Up By Dodgers

Los Angeles Dodgers' outfield prospect Jerry Sands, who was off to a ridiculously hot start in Albuquerque, was called up by the Dodgers today. Utility outfielder Xavier Paul was designated for assignment to make room for Sands on the roster.

Sands will be in the lineup today for the Dodgers, playing left field and hitting eighth. He doesn't have a tremendous amount of competition for the job if he hits, as the Dodgers have been using Marcus Thames and Tony Gwynn in left for most of the season, and while Thames has provided some power, neither has an on-base percentage over .300.

Minor League Ball's John Sickels had this scouting report of Jerry Sands:

He broke out with a .333/.432/.646 mark in the first half for Low-A Great Lakes in '10, then continued hitting for power after moving up to Chattanooga with a .270/.360/.529 mark, hitting 28 doubles and 35 homers overall. Refinements to his swing give him power to all fields, and he has enough bat control and plate discipline to hit for a decent average and draw some walks. He's not especially fast but can pick up a steal if the defense ignores him.

With most of the non-Matt Kemps on the Dodgers having a rough time at the plate, Los Angeles is hoping that some of Sands' .400/.422/.875 magic will translate to the majors right away.