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“Speed Never Slumps.”

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That simple quote often uttered by Hall of Fame broadcaster Vin Scully has proven itself time and again. But while speed may never slump, the lack of speed on a Major League Baseball team has caused many a slump throughout the 152-year history of our national pastime.

The 2021 Dodgers were in a ‘Lack-of-Speed Slump.’

Were.

Oh, sure, you could argue that Dodgers All-Star utility infielder/outfielder Chris Taylor‘s team-leading 10 stolen bases are sort of impressive. But the brutally painful truth is that the Dodgers combined 37 stolen bases thus far this season ranks 23rd among the 30 MLB teams.

On July 30, the Dodgers acquired 28-year-old middle infielder Trea Turner (along with some guy named Max Scherzer) in a trade with the Washington National. At the time of the trade, Turner had 21 stolen bases – tied for fifth-most in Major League Baseball.

Trea Turner now has 22 stolen bases – fourth-most in the MLB and one as a Dodger.

“He has the green light to go whenever,” Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said after his team’s 5-3 win over the Angels of Anaheim on Saturday night at Dodger Stadium. “The speed, the intelligence, baseball IQ, and you saw it there in that first inning – he scored easily from first base. He’s on first base; Max (Muncy) is getting heaters, put it in the gap. So, he just creates tension.”

Tension indeed.

In fact, on that Muncy first-inning double into the left-field gap, Dodgers broadcaster Rick Monday noted that as Muncy was stepping on second base, Turner was stepping on home plate … from first base.

Welcome to the Dodgers, Trea. Your arrival couldn’t happen fast enough.

Play Ball!

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