Austin Barnes
YEARTEAMGABRHitsRBIDTHRBBSOSBCSEAVGOBPSLUG
2018Crushers53196354717140327432000.2400.3580.357
2018Samurai4714532332070631341000.2280.3740.400
2019Samurai3216332001231000.1880.2780.375
2020Firehouse00000000000000.0000.0000.000
2021Moose74251295711602397012110.2270.3530.275
2022Moose4715110338101115390000.2190.2980.318
2023Old Geezers6018120312051435451000.1710.3150.276
MLB Player Data
DateNewsComment
Jun 26 2024Barnes will start at catcher and bat ninth in Wednesday's game against the White Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He'll be making his 22 start of the season while top backstop Will Smith rests in the series finale. Over 74 plate appearances on the campaign, Barnes is hitting .203 with no home runs and two RBI.
May 26 2024Barnes will start at catcher and bat ninth in Sunday's game against the Reds. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Barnes will start for the first time in a week while top backstop Will Smith rests for the day game. Over 45 plate appearances this season, Barnes is hitting .189 with zero home runs or stolen bases.
Apr 25 2024Barnes will start at catcher and bat ninth in Thursday's game against the Nationals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Barnes will pick up his sixth start of the season while top backstop Will Smith gets a breather as the Dodgers and Nationals close their series with a day game after a night game. Over 19 plate appearances to date, Barnes has batted .250 with no extra-base hits, one RBI and one run.
Mar 6 2024Barnes (back) will start at catcher and bat eighth Wednesday in the Dodgers' Cactus League game against the White Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Barnes was scratched from Tuesday's lineup because of a back issue, but he's back behind the plate a day later. The 34-year-old is again slated to be Will Smith's understudy at catcher this season for the Dodgers.
Mar 5 2024Barnes was scratched from the Dodgers' lineup ahead of their Cactus League game against the Angels on Tuesday due to back tightness, Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Manager Dave Roberts didn't specify how severe Barnes' injury is, but it is apparently enough to prevent the 34-year-old backstop from playing Tuesday. Chris Okey will start behind the dish instead while Barnes recovers.
Sep 17 2023Barnes went 1-for-3 with a two-run home run and a walk in Sunday's 6-1 win over the Mariners. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Barnes has gone 4-for-21 (.190) across six games in September, though the catcher may get some more time over Will Smith since the Dodgers clinched the NL West on Saturday. For the year, Barnes has two homers, 11 RBI, 11 runs scored, two stolen bases and a .171/.238/.232 slash line through 182 plate appearances. He will likely be a clear backup once the postseason begins.
Sep 7 2023Barnes (head) will start at catcher and bat ninth Thursday versus the Marlins. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Barnes took a backswing to the head in Tuesday's series opener at Miami, but he's cleared the concussion protocol and is back in action for Thursday's series finale. Will Smith will take a turn as the Dodgers' designated hitter.
Sep 6 2023Barnes cleared concussion protocol Wednesday after getting hit by a backswing Tuesday versus the Marlins, Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Barnes has a contusion on the side of his head, where Nick Fortes accidentally struck him with his bat in the bottom of the seventh inning Tuesday, but the 33-year-old backup catcher could return to action as early as Thursday's series finale in Miami. Will Smith is behind the plate for the Dodgers on Wednesday.
Sep 5 2023Barnes said he felt fine after exiting Tuesday's game against Miami upon getting hit by Nick Fortes' backswing, Bill Plunkett of The Orange County Register reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Barnes said he has a bruise on his left temple and will be re-evaluated ahead of Wednesday's game. The 33-year-old has been serving as the backup to Will Smith all season, and he will likely return to the Dodgers' lineup in a couple days if everything checks out after further testing.
Aug 17 2023Barnes went 2-for-3 with a solo home run Thursday in a 1-0 victory against Milwaukee. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Barnes chose a prime time for his first long ball of the season, as his solo shot to left field in the seventh inning accounted for the lone run in LA's 11th straight win. The catcher added a single in the contest, giving him his first multi-hit performance in 43 games this season. Though he's valued for his work with pitchers as Will Smith's backup behind the plate, Barnes has endured a difficult campaign with the bat, slashing a measly .136/.216/.176 over 141 plate appearances.
Jul 26 2023Barnes will start at catcher and bat ninth in Wednesday's game against the Blue Jays, Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: With top backstop Will Smith resting for the day game after the night game, Barnes will be getting a turn behind the plate. Barnes will be making just his sixth appearance of July after going 2-for-17 with four strikeouts over his prior five games this month.
Jun 14 2023Barnes went 1-for-3 with a walk and one RBI in Wednesday's 8-4 loss to the White Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Barnes had been out for nearly a week tending to an injured right wrist. The backup catcher has hit safely in five of his last 11 games dating back to May 8, but his playing time will remain limited behind Will Smith. Barnes owns a poor .111/.207/.136 slash line with five RBI, four runs scored and two stolen bases over 28 contests this season.
Jun 13 2023Barnes (wrist) remains out of the lineup Tuesday versus the White Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Barnes hasn't appeared in a game for the Dodgers since taking a fastball off his right wrist last Thursday. Will Smith is catching and batting third in Tuesday night's series opener against Chicago.
Jun 8 2023X-rays on Barnes' right wrist came back negative Thursday, David Vassegh of AM 570 LA Sports reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Barnes left Thursday's game against the Reds after taking a fastball to the hand, but he appears to have avoided a major injury. It's possible the Dodgers sideline Barnes for a few days to ensure he's fully-healed his next time out, but he should be able to avoid the IL.
Apr 30 2023Barnes is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against the Cardinals, Bill Plunkett of The Orange County Register reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Though the Dodgers activated Will Smith (concussion) from the 7-day injured list Friday, he served as a designated hitter in his first two games back in action. As a result, Barnes continued to pick up starts behind the plate, but he'll head back to the bench Sunday with Smith deemed ready to make his return as the Dodgers' starting catcher. Assuming Smith sees most of his action at catcher moving forward, Barnes looks like he'll see his role get scaled back.
Apr 28 2023Barnes went 1-for-3 with a stolen base in Thursday's loss against the Pirates. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Barnes led off the fifth inning with a base hit before swiping his second bag of the year, matching his total in 62 games last season. The 33-year-old Barnes has been the Dodgers' primary option behind the plate with Will Smith (concussion) sidelined. While Barnes can run better than a typical catcher, he hasn't offered much with the bat, going just 3-for-38 with no extra-base hits to start the year.
Apr 1 2023Barnes is catching and hitting ninth for Saturday's contest against the Diamondbacks, Jack Harris of the Los Angeles Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: As expected, Barnes is hitting ninth and behind the plate with Clayton Kershaw on the mound, so Will Smith will get the night off. Barnes provides plenty of value for the Dodgers with his defense, but not much fantasy value due to his lack of offensive upside.
Mar 29 2023Barnes went 0-for-2 with a strikeout in Tuesday's exhibition contest against the Angels. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Barnes slashed just .182/.250/.227 for the Dodgers this spring, though he hit much better for Mexico in the World Baseball Classic, posting a .278/.409/.389 slash line over five games. Barnes isn't regarded as a major offensive threat, but he should provide stability behind the plate as the backup to Will Smith for the Dodgers again this season.
Sep 21 2022Barnes went 3-for-4 with a two-run home run in a 6-5 win over the Diamondbacks during the first game of Tuesday's doubleheader. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The veteran backstop is better known for his defense than his offense, but Barnes kick-started a game-winning rally in the eighth inning with his seventh homer of the season. It's his fourth multi-hit performance in seven September games, a stretch during which he's batting a surprising .417 (10-for-24) with two doubles, two home runs, three RBI and seven runs scored.
Sep 5 2022Barnes went 2-for-3 with a solo home run in Monday's 7-4 loss to the Giants. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Barnes got the Dodgers within two runs with his seventh-inning blast. The backup catcher is still seeing limited playing time, but he's posted five multi-hit efforts in 10 games since the start of August. Barnes is up to a .214/.327/.400 slash line with seven homers, 23 RBI, 26 runs scored and two stolen bases through 165 plate appearances this year. Unless something happens to Will Smith, Barnes is unlikely to see much extra playing time.
Aug 25 2022Barnes went 2-for-4 with a two-run home run and two additional RBI in a 12-6 victory against the Brewers on Wednesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Los Angeles racked up 13 hits and 12 runs in the contest, but Barnes' sixth-inning two-run shot was the team's only long ball. The backup backstop also knocked in a run with a fielder's choice in the third inning and notched an RBI single in the fourth. Barnes is batting a paltry .189 on the season, but he's had a strong August with a .333/.391/.667 slash line, two homers and six RBI over six contests.
Aug 18 2022Barnes went 2-for-3 with a solo home run in a 2-1 victory against the Brewers on Wednesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Barnes started in place of No. 1 catcher Will Smith, and he produced the first run of the contest with a solo shot to center field in the sixth inning. It was the first home run for the backstop since he went deep against Philadelphia on May 21. Barnes has had a rough season at the plate but has been better of late, slashing .280/.333/.440 over his past seven games.
Aug 15 2022Barnes (personal) was activated from the bereavement list Monday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Barnes was away from the team for a few days while tending to a personal matter, but he rejoined his teammates in Milwaukee and will resume his role as the backup catcher behind Will Smith.
Aug 12 2022Barnes was placed on the family medical emergency list Friday, Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Players may spend between three and seven days on the list, which is also referred to as the bereavement list. That means Barnes should be back sometime between Monday and Friday of next week. Tony Wolters was called up to serve as Will Smith's backup behind the plate until then.
Aug 3 2022Barnes went 2-for-3 with a double, two runs and an RBI in a 9-5 win over San Francisco on Tuesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Barnes came into the contest batting a paltry .160 on the campaign, but he contributed to a big offensive night for Los Angeles with his first multi-hit performance since May 13. The backup backstop collected his first extra-base hit in over a month with an RBI double in the eighth inning. Barnes has managed a .305 OBP thanks to a 14.2 percent walk rate, but he's otherwise endured a rough season at the plate.
Jul 3 2022Barnes agreed Sunday with the Dodgers on a two-year, $7 million contract extension, Robert Murray of FanSided.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The deal will prevent Barnes from hitting the open market this winter and will keep him on the Dodgers' books through the end of the 2024 campaign. While serving as the backup to No. 1 backstop Will Smith this season, the 32-year-old Barnes has slashed .188/.320/.375 with four home runs, two stolen bases, 14 runs and 12 RBI across 97 plate appearances.
Jul 1 2022Barnes went 1-for-4 with an RBI and a stolen base in Friday's 5-1 win over the Padres. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Barnes has logged a stolen base in each of his last two games after not swiping a bag all year. The catcher also supplied an RBI on a groundout in Friday's win. He appeared in just eight games in June, going 2-for-22 (.091) with nine walks. Barnes is slashing .190/.323/.380 with four home runs, 12 RBI and 14 runs scored in 96 plate appearances. Will Smith is likely to start most games behind the dish, but when he moves to designated hitter as he did Friday, Barnes can fill in.
May 22 2022Barnes went 1-for-1 with a solo home run and scored an additional run in Saturday's 7-4 victory against Philadelphia. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Barnes came into the game as a pinch runner in the eighth inning and came around to score on a Gavin Lux single. Barnes remained in the contest and got a chance to bat in the ninth, lifting a solo homer to left field. Though Will Smith is firmly entrenched as the Dodgers' primary backstop, Barnes has hit well this season, slashing .267/.353/.578 with four homers, nine RBI and a 5:8 BB:K.
May 14 2022Barnes went 3-for-4 with a double, two runs and an RBI in a loss to the Phillies on Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Barnes started for the third time in five days with primary catcher Will Smith nursing a pectoral issue. The backup backstop responded with his first three-hit effort of the campaign. Barnes has seen limited action this season, but he has hit well when given the chance, compiling a .286/.359/.600 slash line with three homers, eight RBI and seven runs through 39 plate appearances.
May 8 2022Barnes went 2-for-4 with a home run and three RBI in a 7-0 win over the Cubs in the first game of Saturday's doubleheader. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He launched a solo shot off Drew Smyly in the fourth inning before wrapping up the scoring in the contest with a two-run single in the eighth. Barnes is taking full advantage of his limited opportunities behind Will Smith this season, and the 32-year-old backstop has a .972 OPS and three homers in only 25 plate appearances.
Apr 13 2022Barnes went 1-for-4 with a solo home run and a strikeout Wednesday against the Twins. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Barnes was on the back end of three consecutive homers for the Dodgers in the eighth inning. He now was a pair of bombs early on this season, which is notable considering he only left the yard six times across 225 plate appearances in 2021. Barnes will yield the majority of the playing time behind the plate to Will Smith, though he's made the most of his opportunity early on in the campaign.
Apr 9 2022Barnes went 2-for-3 with a home run in Saturday's loss against the Rockies. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The backstop made his season debut Saturday and didn't waste time to make an impact, as he took German Marquez deep in the top of the third inning. He was the only player who recorded multiple hits for the Dodgers in this game, but he's not expected to become the regular catcher for the Dodgers, and it wouldn't be shocking if he moves back to the bench in favor of Will Smith for Sunday's series finale.
Mar 24 2022Barnes (head) will start at catcher and bat seventh in Thursday's Cactus League game against the Rockies, Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Just as manager Dave Roberts suggested Wednesday would be the case, Barnes is back in action following a two-day breather after he was struck in the catcher's mask by a foul tip in Monday's game against the White Sox. Barnes passed all concussion tests administered after exiting Monday's contest, and after experiencing no setbacks in the two days that followed, he'll be ready to handle his normal duties behind the plate. He'll likely form a battery with Clayton Kershaw on the days the veteran lefty pitches, but beyond that, Barnes may only get an additional start or two per week while No. 1 backstop Will Smith is at full health.
Mar 21 2022Barnes left Monday's exhibition against the White Sox early after taking a foul tip to his catcher's mask, Juan Toribio of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Skipper Dave Roberts noted after the game that Barnes was feeling " a little foggy" after the foul tip, so the team decided to exercise caution by removing him. He'll be considered day-to-day moving forward and will be re-evaluated Tuesday, per Toribio.
Sep 2 2021Barnes went 2-for-3 with a solo home run in a 4-3 win over Atlanta on Wednesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Barnes gave primary catcher Will Smith a breather and contributed to the win with a third-inning solo shot to left field. The long ball was his second in his past three games and sixth overall this season. Though Barnes and Smith opened the campaign in a semi-timeshare, the latter's offensive performance -- Smith leads all NL catchers with 22 homers -- has propelled him to a clear-cut role as the team's top option behind the plate. Barnes has tallied 195 plate appearances this season to Smith's 414.
Aug 27 2021Barnes went 1-for-3 with a two-run homer in Thursday's 4-0 win over San Diego. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Barnes opened the scoring in the third inning when he sent a Yu Darvish offering over the left-center field wall. The blast was the first since July 24 for the veteran catcher, who had entered the night hitless in nine at-bats over his previous nine games. Barnes is slashing .218/.314/.352 with five homers and 19 RBI in 189 plate appearances this season behind starter Will Smith.
Jul 24 2021Barnes went 2-for-3 with a solo home run in a 1-0 triumph over Colorado on Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Barnes went deep off Colorado starter Kyle Freeland in the second for the game's single run and provided two of only seven hits in the contest. It was the backstop's first home run since June 22 and he's now 5-for-9 over his last three games.
Jul 11 2021Barnes went 0-for-4 with a walk and two runs Saturday in the Dodgers' 22-1 win over the Diamondbacks. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Barnes benefited from the rest of the Los Angeles lineup teeing off on the beleaguered Arizona pitching staff, as he came around to score on a pair of extra-base hits with the bases loaded. The veteran backstop's .208/.327/.328 is serviceable enough for a catcher, but he's unlikely to cut into Will Smith's playing time because of it.
Jun 23 2021Barnes hit a solo home run in a pinch-hit appearance during Tuesday's loss to San Diego. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Dodgers' offense was quiet most of the game but pushed across a run in the eighth frame. With the team trailing by two in the ninth, Barnes was called upon to pinch hit and cut the deficit in half with a solo shot off Mark Melancon. The long ball accounted for his first RBI in what has been a rough month for the backstop -- he is batting only .174 in June, though he has worked five walks to register a respectable .321 OBP.
Jun 11 2021Barnes was not in Friday's lineup despite Clayton Kershaw starting for the Dodgers, but manager Dave Roberts says it was just a standard day off after he started Thursday, Dodger Insider reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Will Smith will catch Kershaw for the first time this year and just the second time since the start of last season. Barnes recently returned from an ankle injury, so the team didn't want him to catch on back-to-back days.
Jun 10 2021Barnes (ankle) will start at catcher and bat eighth Thursday against the Pirates, Juan Toribio of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Barnes hadn't started since picking up a mild ankle sprain Saturday against Atlanta, but he was still available if needed the past few days while No. 1 backstop Will Smith caught the past three games for Los Angeles. Smith will get a breather for the day game after a night game, paving the way for Barnes to return to action. The 31-year-old should regularly serve as Clayton Kershaw's primary battery mate, but Barnes can't be counted on to pick up more than one or two additional starts per week with Smith clearly entrenched as the starter.
Jun 8 2021Manager Dave Roberts said Barnes' ankle is feeling better, and the catcher is expected to rejoin the lineup Thursday in Pittsburgh, Jorge Castillo of the Los Angeles Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 31-year-old was deemed healthy by Roberts after exiting Saturday's game with a mild ankle sprain, but the injury has apparently lingered over the past couple days. The fact the Dodgers haven't added another catcher to the roster indicates the issue isn't a serious concern, so Barnes could be available off the bench Tuesday and Wednesday.
Jun 6 2021Barnes (ankle) is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against Atlanta, but manager Dave Roberts said that 31-year-old will be available to catch the Dodgers' next two games if needed, Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Los Angeles' decision not to bring up another catcher from the minors would seem to support the notion that the mild ankle sprain Barnes picked up in Saturday's game isn't anything that will cost him time. No. 1 catcher Will Smith will be back behind the plate for Sunday's series finale, but Barnes should be ready to contribute off the bench.
Jun 5 2021Barnes suffered a minor ankle sprain during Saturday's loss to Atlanta according to manager Dave Roberts, Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Barnes was initially able to remain in the game, but did exit later in the contest as a result of a double switch that Roberts utilized for strategic purposes. Per Bill Plunkett of The Orange County Register, Roberts said that Will Smith was slated to get the start behind the plate Sunday anyway, but that Barnes is expected to be available as a defensive replacement if needed.
May 29 2021Barnes went 1-for-1 with a three-run home run in an 8-5 loss to the Giants on Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Barnes pinch hit with two out and two on in the ninth with the Dodgers down 5-2 and smashed a game-tying home run to left for his second home run on the season. The backstop is a quality player but doesn't receive enough run on a mighty Los Angeles team to be a viable option in most leagues.
May 22 2021Barnes went 1-for-3 with a home run, two RBI and a run scored in Saturday's 6-3 win over the Giants. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Barnes hit his first home run of the season off Jarlin Garcia in the fifth inning. The 31-year-old is slashing .227/.346/.318 in 79 plate appearances. He has 10 RBI and seven runs to along with his only home run. Barnes serves as the backup catcher behind Will Smith.
Apr 29 2021Barnes was 1-for-1 with an RBI single as Milwaukee beat Los Angeles 2-1 Thursday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Barnes pinch hit for Trevor Bauer and drove home Chris Taylor with two outs in the ninth to bring the Dodgers within one run in the eventual losing effort. It was just the third hit for the backstop over the last two weeks.
Apr 3 2021Barnes (hand) will catch and bat eighth Saturday against the Rockies, J.P. Hoornstra of the Los Angeles Daily News reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Barnes left Thursday's season opener with a cut on his hand following a collision at home plate. He didn't appear in Friday's contest but is ready to go again Saturday, starting ahead of Will Smith for the second time in the first three games.
Mar 2 2021Barnes' role with the Dodgers this season is expected to lean more toward a timeshare than a traditional backup situation, Jorge Castillo of the Los Angeles Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Manager Dave Roberts suggested that both Barnes and Will Smith will play important roles behind the plate for the club this season, though he wasn't precise about how their playing time will shake out. "If you look at timeshare, I guess [Barnes is] a backup, but I don't see it as such," Roberts said. "I think it's a 1 and 1A. They're both very valuable, and I think that we've done a good job of using both of them and exploiting strengths and things to help us win baseball games." While Smith is clearly the more talented offensive performer, Barnes' ability to handle the pitching staff has allowed him to carve out a fair amount of playing time. The Dodgers often deployed Barnes behind the dish while slotting Smith at DH during the playoffs last season, but with the designated hitter out of the National League for 2021, that scenario is no longer an option. Smith is still expected to get the majority of the starts for Los Angeles, but he may not handle as large of a workload behind the plate as most everyday catchers.
Feb 14 2021Barnes agreed to a two-year, $4.3 million contract with the Dodgers on Sunday, Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Barnes will avoid arbitration with the Dodgers by reaching a two-year deal with the team ahead of spring training. The 31-year-old should serve in a reserve role behind the plate once again in 2021 after slashing .244/.353/.314 with one home run and nine RBI over 86 at-bats last season.
Oct 24 2020Barnes went 1-for-3 with a home run, two RBI and a run scored in Game 3 of the World Series against the Rays on Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Barnes drove in his first run in the fourth inning on a safety squeeze, laying down an effective bunt along the first-base line. He followed that up with a solo home run in his next at-bat, putting the Dodgers up 6-1. It was Barnes' first home run of the postseason, though he's managed a strong .350/.381/.500 line across 22 plate appearances overall.
Aug 30 2020Barnes is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against the Rangers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Since Will Smith was activated from the 10-day injured list a week ago, Barnes has settled back in as the Dodgers' No. 2 backstop. He'll sit for the fifth time in seven games since Smith's return.
Aug 19 2020Barnes is not in Wednesday's lineup against the Mariners. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Barnes will head to the bench after going 2-for-2 with a walk and a pair of runs scored in Tuesday's win. Keibert Ruiz is starting behind the dish in his place Wednesday.
Aug 16 2020Barnes is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against the Angels, Ken Gurnick of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Barnes had started the past three games in place of Will Smith (neck), who has since been placed on the 10-day injured list. Though Keibert Ruiz will step in to replace him behind the dish in the series finale, Barnes should still see the lion's share of the starts at catcher while Smith is sidelined. Barnes is slashing an underwhelming .250/.286/.350 on the season, but he's been running hot at the plate lately, going 8-for-18 with a home run and a double over his past five games.
Aug 13 2020Barnes went 2-for-4 with a two-run home run in a victory over the Padres on Thursday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Barnes was part of a homer-happy Dodgers offense in the win, slugging the fourth of six Los Angeles homers in the game. His first long ball of the season was a two-run shot off reliever Luis Perdomo in the fourth inning. Barnes has shown signs of emerging from a season-long slump over his last three games, going 5-for-9 with four RBI over that span.
Aug 9 2020Barnes is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against the Giants, Eric Stephen of SBNation.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Barnes and Will Smith have been deployed in a fairly even timeshare behind the dish this season, with the latter having started seven games to the latter's nine. Though the Dodgers value Barnes for his defensive skills, he's been the inferior fantasy option of the two thus far, slashing .091/.167/.091 with two RBI and one run entering play Sunday.
Jul 23 2020Manager Dave Roberts said in an appearance Thursday on the "Off Air with Joe and Orel" podcast that Barnes will be behind the plate in the Dodgers' Opening Day game against the Giants, Eric Stephen of TrueBlueLA.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Roberts indicated that he expects Will Smith to start three of the Dodgers' first five games, suggesting that he's still Option 1A in the team's timeshare at catcher. The more defensive-minded Barnes looks like he could settle in as a full-time battery mate for Clayton Kershaw, who will take the hill for his franchise-record ninth Opening Day start.
Jul 21 2020Barnes (hand) is starting behind the plate and batting ninth in Tuesday's exhibition game against the Angels, David Vassegh of AM 570 LA Sports reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 30-year-old was hit on his left hand during Sunday's exhibition contest, but his quick return to the field indicates it isn't a serious issue. Barnes should be ready for Thursday's season opener against the Giants, and he's expected to serve as the backup catcher to starter Will Smith.
Jul 19 2020Barnes (hand) underwent an X-ray Sunday that came back negative, Alanna Rizzo of Spectrum SportsNet LA reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Barnes left Sunday's exhibition game after being hit by a pitch on his left hand, but he appears to have avoided a major injury. He'll be held out Monday, but the team hopes to allow him to return Tuesday. Barring any setbacks, Barnes should be ready for Opening Day.
May 27 2020Barnes has been able to both hit and catch during the suspension of play, he stated in an interview with John Hartung of Spectrum SportsNet LA on Wednesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: "I'm able to play catch. I'm able to hit a little bit, find a cage here and there," Barnes explained. The 30-year-old indicated that he "feels good" and is ready to go should a second spring training take place in the weeks ahead. Barnes is slated to back up Will Smith behind the plate this season, though the two may approach something close to a split based on comments made by manager Dave Roberts before play was halted.
Mar 17 2020Barnes has fared well in spring training and may split catching duties when the regular season commences, Ken Gurnick of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Barnes entered spring training behind fellow backstop Will Smith in the pecking order. While Barnes posted a 1.033 OPS in 21 at-bats, Smith lagged behind with a .518 OPS in the same number of trips to the plate. The sample size is small and both players had similar strikeout and walk numbers this spring, but manager Dave Roberts' description of their "partnership" behind the plate could imply that they'll get nearly equal playing time at the start of the season.
Dec 2 2019Barnes agreed to a one-year, $1.1 million deal with the Dodgers on Monday, Robert Murray of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He will avoid arbitration and won't get non-tendered, despite the fact he hit .203/.293/.340 in 242 plate appearances last year. While his offensive output has been quite poor in every year except 2017, he is a good defensive catcher and can play second base in a pinch. He should serve as Will Smith's backup in 2020.
Sep 6 2019Barnes was recalled from Triple-A Oklahoma City on Friday, J.P. Hoornstra of the Los Angeles Daily News reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Barnes returns to the Dodgers after spending the 10-day minimum in the minors and should serve as the third catcher and occasional utility man. The 29-year-old has struggled in the majors this season with a .198/.288/.333 slash line in 71 games.
Aug 27 2019Barnes was optioned to Triple-A Oklahoma City on Tuesday, J.P. Hoornstra of the Los Angeles Daily News reports.
Aug 24 2019Barnes will be optioned once Russell Martin (personal) returns to the team but will be recalled once rosters expand in September, Alanna Rizzo of Spectrum SportsNet
Jul 25 2019Barnes was optioned to Triple-A Oklahoma City on Thursday, J.P. Hoornstra of the Los Angeles Daily News<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 23 2019Barnes isn't in the starting lineup<\/a> for Tuesday's game against the Angels.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 19 2019Barnes isn't in the starting lineup<\/a> for Friday's game against the Marlins.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 17 2019Barnes is not starting Wednesday against the Phillies, Bill Plunkett of The Orange County Register<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 14 2019Barnes is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against the Red Sox, Bill Plunkett of The Orange County Register<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 6 2019Barnes is not starting Saturday<\/a> against San Diego.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 4 2019Barnes is out of the lineup<\/a> for Thursday's game against the Padres.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 30 2019Barnes is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against the Rockies, Jorge Castillo of the Los Angeles Times<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 26 2019Barnes is not in the lineup Wednesday against the Diamondbacks, Ken Gurnick of MLB.com<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 22 2019Barnes is not starting<\/a> against the Rockies on Saturday.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 22 2019Barnes is not starting Saturday<\/a> against the Rockies.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 21 2019Barnes went 3-for-4 with a home run, double and two RBI in a victory over San Francisco on Thursday.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 19 2019Barnes is not in the lineup Wednesday against the Giants, J.P. Hoornstra of the Los Angeles Daily News<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 16 2019Barnes is out of the lineup for Sunday night's game against the Cubs, David Vassegh of AM 570 LA Sports<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 14 2019Barnes isn't in the starting lineup for Friday's game against the Cubs, J.P. Hoornstra of the Los Angeles Daily News<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 10 2019Barnes isn't in the starting lineup for Monday's game against the Angels, J.P. Hoornstra of the Los Angeles Daily News<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 8 2019Barnes will sit Saturday against the Giants, David Vassegh of AM 570 LA Sports<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 6 2019Barnes (groin) was activated<\/a> from the 10-day injured list Thursday.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 4 2019Barnes went 1-for-3 with an RBI single and a run in his rehab game for High-A Rancho Cucamonga on Tuesday, Bill Plunkett of The Orange County Register<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 2 2019Barnes (groin) will begin a two-game rehab assignment at High-A Rancho Cucamonga this week before returning to the Dodgers to start Friday, Jorge Castillo of the Los Angeles Times<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 29 2019Barnes has resumed workouts and his slight groin strain is improving, Ken Gurnick of MLB.com<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 27 2019Barnes has been placed on the 10-day injured list with a minor groin strain, J.P. Hoornstra of the Los Angeles Daily News<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 26 2019Barnes was removed from Sunday's game against the Pirates in the sixth inning due to left groin soreness, Alanna Rizzo of Spectrum SportsNet LA<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 25 2019Barnes is not starting Saturday<\/a> against the Pirates.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 22 2019Barnes is not in Wednesday's lineup<\/a> against the Rays.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 19 2019Barnes is not in the lineup for Sunday's game against the Reds, Bill Plunkett of The Orange County Register<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 15 2019Barnes is not in the lineup Wednesday against the Padres, J.P. Hoornstra of the Los Angeles Daily News<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 12 2019Barnes is not in the lineup for Sunday's game against the Nationals, David Vassegh of AM 570 LA Sports<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 9 2019Barnes is not in the lineup Thursday against the Nationals, David Vassegh of AM 570 LA Sports<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 2 2018Barnes went 1-for-3 with a stolen base in Sunday's victory over the Rockies.Barnes made his third start over the Dodgers' last four contests. Two of those games have come against southpaws, and Sunday's was the result of Yasmani Grandal sitting out a day game following a night game. The catching situation in Los Angeles appears to be that of a traditional platoon, but neither catcher is batting above .230, so Barnes could certainly earn more playing time if his bat heats up.
Jun 2 2018Barnes went 1-for-4 with a walk and a pair of runs scored in Friday's win over the Rockies.Yasmani Grandal got the day off against the left-handed Tyler Anderson, allowing Barnes to make his second start of the week. The 28-year-old has been unable to reproduce the breakout numbers he posted in 2017, which has limited his fantasy utility in the first third of the season. Barnes is still receiving occasional starts as a backup at both catcher and second base, so the opportunity is there for him to rebound if his bat wakes up as the weather heats up.
May 3 2018Barnes went 1-for-2 with two walks, a solo home run and two runs scored Thursday against the Diamondbacks.Barnes took advantage of an opportunity to start behind the plate, driving his first home run of the season to left field. He has seen sporadic playing time with only 46 at-bats through 31 games. While he has an ugly .196 batting average, he has been able to get on base at a .413 clip and walked more than he has struck out. However, due to his limited playing time, he is tough to roster outside of deep two-catcher leagues.
Apr 9 2018Barnes got a rare start at second base Sunday, going 0-for-2 before being lifted for a pinch hitter in an extra-inning win over the Giants.Manager Dave Roberts got his backup catcher in the lineup against the left-handed Ty Blach, but he was lifted in favor of Chase Utley when the southpaw was pulled after six innings. Barnes' stock rose heading into the season after he broke out to the tune of a .289/.408/.486 slash line in 262 plate appearances in 2017, but Yasmani Grandal's hot start at the plate has limited the versatile catcher to occasional starts against lefties. The 28-year-old should still see enough action to remain relevant in two-catcher formats, but those in standard leagues can probably find a better option on waivers.
Mar 6 2018Barnes (elbow) is in the lineup as a catcher for Tuesday's game against the Cubs, David Vassegh of AM 570 LA Sports reports.Barnes has appeared in three games this spring, all as a designated hitter. He's been battling a minor elbow injury since the start of spring, but since he's back catching more than three weeks before Opening Day, he should be fine by the start of the regular season. He's expected to back up Yasmani Grandal this season.
Mar 4 2018Barnes (elbow) is scheduled to catch Tuesday's game, Ken Gurnick of MLB.com reports.Manager Dave Roberts had previously been vague about the status of Barnes, but now he has a firm date in sight. He has seen plenty of hitting reps as a DH, but a return to the backstop will mark a milestone in his recovery. Despite the step in the right direction, Barnes remains projected to be the short side of the LA catching platoon.
Mar 2 2018Barnes (elbow) will catch his first game "shortly," according to manager Dave Roberts, Ken Gurnick of MLB.com reports.He has been in the lineup lately as the designated hitter as he recovers from elbow discomfort, but it sounds like he could get the nod behind the dish at some point in the coming days. Yasmani Grandal, who is expected to open the year on the strong side of a platoon, is 0-for-12 at the plat thus far in spring training. Barnes has gone from being overrated in November and December to perhaps being a bit undervalued currently in drafts. He won't carry fantasy rosters in any one category, but is also unlikely to do any damage in batting average, which is a rarity among catchers.
Feb 22 2018Barnes is set to DH for the first week of Cactus League games after experiencing elbow discomfort heading into spring camp, Ken Gurnick of MLB.com reports.Manager Dave Roberts explained that Barnes is currently on a throwing program, but that he would be able to catch and throw if the season started today. At this point, it appears that the Dodgers are being cautious with the 28-year-old, which makes sense for any sort of ailment sustained in February. Barring any setback, Barnes should be back behind the plate in early March and at full health well before Opening Day.
Feb 15 2018Manager Dave Roberts stated that Barnes will split time with Yasmani Grandal in 2018, although Grandal will likely see a majority of at-bats against right-handed pitching, Andy McCullough of The Los Angeles Times reports.In a surprising move, it appears as though Grandal will be the primary option behind the plate heading into this season. It was clear that Barnes surpassed Grandal in the postseason, and hit .289/.408/.486 with eight home runs and 38 RBI over 102 games during the regular season. In the event that Grandal struggles out of the gate, expect Barnes to see an expanded role much like he did last fall. Continue to monitor this situation throughout the spring.
Sep 27 2017Barnes went 3-for-4 with a pair of doubles, two RBI and two runs in a 10-0 win against the Padres on Wednesday.Barnes has arguably been the best backup catcher in the game this year, as this effort lifted his season OPS to .907 -- a much higher figure than the .769 that No. 1 backstop Yasmani Grandal is sporting. As such, Barnes makes for an appealing DFS play when he draws into the lineup.
Sep 26 2017Barnes went 1-for-3 with a walk and a three-run home run in Monday's win over the Padres.The long ball was Barnes' second in as many starts and eighth in 97 games this season. His season line is up to .285/.408/.483 -- a dramatic improvement over previous stints in the majors -- as he's displayed great patience at the plate and good contact skills. He has made 18 appearances at second base and could enter next season with dual eligibility, although it wouldn't be a huge boon to his value as Barnes is better utilized in fantasy at his natural position anyway.
Sep 23 2017Barnes went 1-for-3 while hitting a solo home run Saturday, his seventh of the season, during the Dodgers' 2-1 loss to the Giants.He provided the only offense for the scuffling yet playoff-cemented Dodgers, lifting a Madison Bumgarner offering over the left-field wall in the eighth inning to break up the shutout. Barnes, who's slashing .284/.407/.471 across 246 plate appearances, appears to be eating into more of the struggling Yasmani Grandal's playing time. He appears well worth a fantasy add in two-catcher fantasy leagues, or even in formats where it pays to stream.
Sep 14 2017Barnes got the nod behind the dish Wednesday, going 0-for-2 with a pair of walks in a 4-1 win over the Giants.The 27-year-old has been on the short side of a catching platoon with Yasmani Grandal this year, but the latter's recent struggles at the plate could lead to more playing time for Barnes down the stretch, Bill Plunkett of The Orange County Register reports. Manager Dave Roberts mentioned that he wants to see Grandal snap out of his current funk, but he added that he would play the best option as the Dodgers approach the postseason. Barnes is slashing a healthy .294/.413/.471 in 225 plate appearances, so he would immediately gain fantasy value if a changing of the guard occurs.
Aug 12 2017Barnes went 2-for-3 with a double, a walk and an RBI in Friday's loss to the Padres.The veteran backstop started his second consecutive game behind the dish in place of the struggling Yasmani Grandal. It is worth noting that the Dodgers have faced southpaws in the two games that Barnes has started, so this is likely a sign of a platoon forming as opposed to a changing of the guard. The 27-year-old has performed well in a limited role this season (.292/.414/.521), making him a solid play in daily formats when he is penciled in the lineup.
Aug 10 2017Barnes (hand) is in the lineup for Thursday's series finale against the Diamondbacks, MLB.com's Steve Gilbert reports.Barnes was on the receiving end of a foul ball that grazed his throwing hand during Sunday's game, causing him to miss the last few outings while Yasmani Grandal scooped up all the starts behind the plate. The catcher was able to come in as a pinch hitter during Wednesday's victory, and appears good to go moving forward as Grandal's backup.
Aug 8 2017Barnes (hand) is out of Tuesday's lineup against the Diamondbacks.He took a foul ball of his hand in Sunday's game, but his absence from Tuesday's lineup could simply be a matter of him being the No. 2 catcher, and Yasmani Grandal getting a start against righty Zack Godley, which is not unexpected. Continue to consider Barnes day-to-day for now.
Aug 6 2017Barnes took a foul ball off his throwing hand in Sunday's game against the Mets. However, X-rays came back negative according to Ken Gurnick of MLB.com.Barnes stayed in the game and finished 1-for-4 with an RBI, but evidently the incident was serious enough to get his hand checked out after the game. The Dodgers' top catcher Yasmani Grandal is dealing with a minor back injury of his own, so hopefully Barnes isn't forced to miss time. Look for another update prior to Tuesday's series opener in Arizona.
Jul 23 2017Barnes hit a three-run home run as a part of a 2-for-4 showing Sunday against the Braves.Barnes managed to open up the scoring in the fourth inning off Atlanta starter Sean Newcomb by belting an 0-2 offering over the fence. The 27-year-old catcher boasts a .944 OPS in his limited playing time, although his fantasy upside is limited as long as he's behind Yasmani Grandal in the pecking order behind the plate in Los Angeles. However, given how well he performs in his few opportunities, Barnes is a decent option in deeper two-catcher leagues.
Jul 9 2017Barnes went 1-for-3 with a solo home run in Sunday's 5-2 win over the Royals.The 27-year-old has been locked recently, smacking three home runs and eight RBI over his last 16 at-bats, but that stretch has spanned nine days due to his role as the Dodgers' backup catcher. Barnes' value will be extremely limited unless Yasmani Grandal goes down to injury.
Jul 1 2017Barnes went 2-for-5 with two home runs and seven RBI in Friday's win over the Padres.Barnes had only compiled two homers and 11 RBI before his offensive explosion Friday. The backup catcher is now slashing a respectable .284/.398/.537 with 14 extra-base hits and 18 RBI in 41 games. His value will remain limited given he only receives one or two starts per week, but he could prove to be serviceable in deeper leagues should something happen to Yasmani Grandal.
Jun 28 2017Barnes spelled Yasmani Grandal behind the dish Tuesday, going 0-for-3 in a win over the Angels.While Barnes didn't contribute to the box score, he has been effective in a backup role this season (.278/.398/.478 in 40 games). The veteran backstop only receives a start or two per week, but he could gain deep-league value in the event Grandal goes down to injury.
Jun 1 2017Barnes is batting seventh and catching Thursday against the Cardinals, Andy McCullough of the Los Angeles Times reports.He'll again fill in for Yasmani Grandal as Brandon McCarthy takes the hill. Barnes has proved adept in the backup backstop role, batting .273/.385/.545 in 24 games.
May 28 2017Barnes went 2-for-3 with an RBI and a pair of runs scored in Sunday's win over the Cubs.The veteran catcher received his lone start of the week in place of Yasmani Grandal and delivered at the plate. Barnes has been effective as a backup, slashing .264/.381/.528 in 63 plate appearances.
Apr 27 2017Barnes is in the Dodgers' Thursday lineup against the Giants, hitting sixth and playing catcher, Ken Gurnick of MLB.com reports.Barnes replaces Yasmani Grandal during the afternoon game against southpaw Matt Moore. He could be a sneaky daily fantasy play considering the platoon advantage.
Apr 6 2017Barnes is behind the plate and batting eighth in the Dodgers' lineup Thursday against the Padres, David Vassegh of AM 570 LA Sports reports.Barnes is spelling Yasmani Grandal on the getaway afternoon game. While he'll earn many a start each month and offers some intrigue in deep fantasy leagues -- mainly NL-only -- at the dish, he'll likely only get one start per week under most circumstances.
Mar 31 2017With Bobby Wilson being reassigned to the minors, Barnes has officially won the Dodgers' backup catcher job out of camp, Bill Plunkett of The Orange County Register reports.The Dodgers plan on using Yasmani Grandal as more than just a platoon catcher this season, so Barnes will be limited to a start or two per week. The 27-year-old won't generate fantasy interest unless Grandal were to go down to injury.
Feb 4 2017Barnes is the favorite to win the backup catcher job out of spring training.Barnes didn't do much in his limited playing time last season, slashing a meager .156/.270/.188 in 37 plate appearances. That was a small sample size, and there is hope for his bat after he slashed .295/.380/.443 with Triple-A Oklahoma City last season. With Carlos Ruiz gone, Barnes will handle primary backup duties for Yasmani Grandal.
Sep 2 2016Barnes was recalled from Triple-A Oklahoma City on Friday.The 26-year-old has posted excellent numbers in the Pacific Coast League in recent seasons, but he has struggled in the big leagues in a small sample (63 plate appearances). He has an excellent approach, and what seems to be an above average hit tool, although that has yet to manifest itself against big league pitching. Primarily a catcher, Barnes also plays second base, third base and the outfield corners, so he will occupy a minor utility role for the Dodgers down the stretch.
Aug 28 2016Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said Sunday that Barnes would be recalled from the minors when rosters expand Sept. 1, Bill Plunkett of the Orange County Register reports.Barnes will serve as the Dodgers' No. 3 catcher behind Yasmani Grandal and Carlos Ruiz while also assuming a utility role around the infield. Everyday at-bats won't be in the offing for Barnes, who has slashed .292/.378/.435 over 377 plate appearances at Triple-A Oklahoma City, but given how many injuries the Dodgers have suffered throughout this season, the quality depth he provides won't be taken for granted.
Jul 31 2016Barnes was optioned to Triple-A Oklahoma City on Sunday, Ken Gurnick of MLB.com reports.Barnes went 1-for-4 at the plate during his latest stint with the big club, but with Enrique Hernandez returning from DL, it was time for Barnes to return to Oklahoma City. Barnes has put together a solid season at Oklahoma City where he's hitting .299/.383/.454.
Jul 22 2016Barnes has been recalled by the Dodgers on Friday.The 26-year-old catcher/infielder has been seeing the ball well at Triple-A Oklahoma City, hitting .333 with two home runs and eight RBI in his last 10 games. Barnes has also compiled 17 stolen bases for Triple-A in 63 games this season. Barnes will play a utility role for the Dodgers while Yasiel Puig is banged up as well as Enrique Hernandez, Trayce Thompson and Andre Either on the disabled list.
Jun 30 2016Barnes is back in the lineup for Triple-A Oklahoma City after testing negative for concussion symptoms that rose as a result of taking a couple foul balls off his mask during last Saturday's game, Eric Stephen of True Blue LA reports.Barnes is in the lineup, but at second base, so the club seems to want to ease him back into catching. Barnes is batting .298/.396/.409 for Oklahoma City.
Jun 14 2016Barnes was optioned to Triple-A Oklahoma City on Tuesday, Bill Plunkett of the Orange County Register reports.The Dodgers rolled with three catchers for more than a week, but with outfielder Will Venable coming aboard on a major league deal, they sent Barnes packing. Barnes has gone 2-for-19 with seven strikeouts with the big club so far this season, and will likely continue to ride the shuttle so long as Yasmani Grandal and A.J. Ellis are healthy.
Jun 8 2016Barnes is in the lineup Wednesday against the Rockies.Barnes will be making his first start with the Dodgers since April 10. He will man second base and bat eighth against southpaw Chris Rusin after being recalled from Triple-A Oklahoma City on Sunday. In 18 at-bats with the club this season, Barnes has two hits and one RBI.
Jun 5 2016Barnes was recalled from Triple-A Oklahoma City on Sunday.Barnes owns a .306/.413/.375 slash line in the hitter-friendly Pacific Coast League, but that was enough to earn him a promotion after left fielder Carl Crawford was designated for assignment Sunday. Barnes will provide the Dodgers with speed over power, as he has 12 stolen bases and zero home runs over 37 games for Oklahoma City. The 26-year-old can play infield, outfield, and even be used as an emergency catcher, so he could find himself with occasional starts due to his versatility. In the meantime, Howie Kendrick is expected to be the main beneficiary in terms of the reps at left field Crawford will leave behind.
Apr 15 2016Barnes was optioned to Triple-A Oklahoma City on Friday.With Chris Hatcher returning from paternity leave, the Dodgers needed to free up a roster spot and Barnes was the guy they chose to send down to the minors. The 26-year-old has started three games at catcher and one at second base for the Dodgers on the young season, and while he hasn't committed an error in the field, he's struggled at the plate. He's hitting .133 with a run and RBI over 15 plate appearances. However, given he's a career .300 hitter in the minors, he'll be a likely call up if the Dodgers have a roster spot to fill.
Apr 6 2016Barnes is out of the lineup on Wednesday.After starting at catcher and batting eighth on Tuesday, Barnes will sit for Wednesday's game. With Yasmani Grandal (forearm) on the DL, Barnes is splitting time with A.J. Ellis behind the dish. Ellis also started Monday on Opening Day for the Dodgers. Barnes went 0-for-4 with two strikeouts on Tuesday.
Apr 5 2016Barnes will catch and bat eighth against the Padres on Tuesday.After sitting in favor of A.J. Ellis on Opening Day, Barnes will slot into the lineup Tuesday for his ninth start at the major league level. With Yasmani Grandal (forearm) on the DL, the door is open for Barnes to split time behind the plate in the short term, and manager Dave Roberts suggested the team could keep three catchers after Grandal's return.
Mar 14 2016Barnes is batting .389/.522/.889 this spring as he battles for a spot on the Dodgers' bench.If you assume that Carl Crawford and Alex Guerrero crack the 25-man roster and the Dodgers carry 12 pitchers, there won't be room for Barnes. He's been seeing time at positions other than catcher this spring to improve his versatility
Sep 16 2015Barnes will start at second base and bat leadoff Wednesday against the Rockies.The Dodgers' lineup has an odd look to it, with manager Don Mattingly opting to rest many of his regulars following Tuesday night's 16-inning game. Barnes will get an opportunity at second with Chase Utley manning first in place of Adrian Gonzalez, and he will be atop the order against lefty Jorge De La Rosa. Barnes hit .412/.473/.577 against left-handed pitching at Triple-A Oklahoma City this season.
Aug 31 2015Barnes was recalled from Triple-A on Monday, Ken Gurnick of MLB.com reports.It's odd that the Dodgers were in a rush to put Enrique Hernandez on the DL and call up Barnes to serve as the third catcher, so perhaps either Yasmani Grandal or A.J. Ellis is dealing with some minor issue. Either way, Barnes isn't likely to see much playing time.
Aug 4 2015Barnes was optioned back to Triple-A on Tuesday.Barnes served as the interim backup catcher while A.J. Ellis was on the DL, but with the veteran being activated Tuesday, Barnes will head back to Oklahoma City. Barnes appeared in only two games over the two-week call-up, going 1-for-4 with a double.
Jul 20 2015Barnes was recalled from Triple-A Oklahoma City on Monday and will start behind the plate and bat eighth against the Braves.With A.J. Ellis headed to the disabled list with a knee injury and Yasmani Grandal coming off the bench after being struck by a foul ball in the mask, Barnes gets the call-up and the start Monday. The 25-year-old was hitting .304 in Triple-A and is 1-for-5 this season in the majors.
Jun 2 2015Barnes was optioned to Triple-A Oklahoma City after Game 1 of Tuesday's doubleheader against the Rockies.The Dodgers opted to keep Barnes around for a couple extra days after Yasmani Grandal's return from the 7-day DL and he even got the start in Tuesday's game 1, going 0-for-2 with a walk and a run scored. He will head back down for regular playing time with Oklahoma City, but Barnes figures to return no later than Sept. 1.
Jun 2 2015Barnes is in the lineup for Game 1 of Tuesday's doubleheader against the Rockies.With the Dodgers carrying three catchers, Barnes' playing time will likely be sporadic, but if he impresses early, the Dodgers may have to eventually make a tough decision with A.J. Ellis.
May 23 2015Barnes was recalled from Triple-A Oklahoma City on Saturday.With Yasmany Grandal landing on the 7-day concussion DL, Barnes will come up for his first major league opportunity. The 25-year-old has fared well in his first exposure to Triple-A pitching (.290/.390/.430), but he may head right back down upon Grandal's return, and veteran A.J. Ellis seems like the slight favorite for playing time in the interim.
Dec 10 2014Barnes was traded to the Dodgers on Wednesday, Clark Spencer of the Miami Herald reports.A minor piece included in the six-player swap, Barnes hit .304/.398/.472 with 13 home runs between High-A and Double-A last season. The Dodgers are looking for long-term help behind the plate, but there are questions about his ability to hold up as a starter at the position once he's ready to play in the big leagues. Barnes has split time between catcher and second base as a minor leaguer, which also points to a future as a utility player.
Nov 21 2014Barnes was added to the Marlins' 40-man roster.Barnes had a strong 2014 season between both High-A Jupiter and Double-A Jacksonville, slashing .304/.398/.472 with 13 homers between the two leagues. The 24-year-old will probably start 2015 at Double-A, but could continue to work his way up within the organization.