Dodgers starting outfielder placed on IL with knee contusion

The Dodgers on Friday announced the placement of right fielder Jason Heyward on the IL with a knee contusion. In a corresponding move they recalled outfielder James Outman. Los Angeles also optioned reliever Nick Ramirez and recalled right-hander Gus Varland.

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts told reporters before the game the team "dodged a bullet" with Heyward's injury, which is expected to keep him out one-to-two weeks per the LA Times' Mike DiGiovanna.

Heyward has played in 42 games this season since returning from the IL. He's batting .203 with four home runs.

Outman was sent down in the middle of May due to his struggles at the plate. He's been hitting well in Triple-A Oklahoma City, posting a .279 average and a .924 OPS in 38 games. He also has eight doubles and nine home runs with 24 walks and 47 strikeouts.

Roberts told reporters Andy Pages will remain the everyday centerfielder per Fabian Ardaya of the Athletic. Outman will play CF when Pages fills in for Heyward in RF. Teoscar Hernandez could also swing over to right with Miguel Vargas filling in in left field.

This could go a long way toward deciding how the Dodgers operate at the trade deadline. If Outman regains the form he found his rookie season and gives the club a legitimate starting option in the outfield, they may decide not to try and add an OF by the July 30 deadline.