Josue De Paula Made His Dodger Stadium Debut
The 21-year-old outfielder contributed to the Dodgers' 8-2 victory over the Giants in his home stadium debut.
Updated on Sept. 19, 2026 in Baseball
Live Poll
Do you believe calling up young prospects significantly boosts your local team's chances of postseason success?
Los Angeles Dodgers prospect Josue De Paula recorded two hits and an RBI during his first game at Dodger Stadium on Friday. De Paula, who wears number 95, was called up from Double-A to fill the roster spot of Shohei Ohtani.
Why it matters
De Paula was promoted directly from Double-A, marking a first during the tenure of Andrew Friedman. His arrival comes at a critical time as he competes for a spot on the Dodgers' postseason roster.
De Paula recorded five hits, five RBIs, and eight walks through his first eight games, maintaining a .924 on-base plus slugging percentage. In his Dodger Stadium debut, he went 2 for 3 with two runs scored.
The players
Josue De Paula
He is a 21-year-old outfielder for the Los Angeles Dodgers who signed as an international free agent in 2022.
Andrew Friedman
He serves as the president of baseball operations for the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Shohei Ohtani
He is a star player for the Los Angeles Dodgers currently on the injured list.
The details
De Paula hit a two-out double in the sixth inning that broke a 2-2 tie, helping secure the 8-2 win against the San Francisco Giants. The outfielder also successfully used the Automated Ball-Strike system to win a challenge during the contest.
Timeline
Josue De Paula debuted in the major leagues on September 11, 2026.
He made his Dodger Stadium debut on September 18, 2026.
The Big Picture
The use of the Automated Ball-Strike system in De Paula's debut reflects the ongoing integration of digital officiating tools in professional baseball. This technology continues to shift the game toward objective data-based outcomes for balls and strikes.
De Paula's performance directly affects the Dodgers' current bench depth and postseason lineup strategy. His ability to draw eight walks in eight games provides a specific metric for potential OBP impact in upcoming playoff series.
The takeaway
De Paula has demonstrated immediate adaptability by successfully challenging calls with the Automated Ball-Strike system during his first home game. His rapid advancement from Double-A highlights the team's willingness to rely on young talent in high-pressure situations.
Further reading
For more on the current team, check out Los Angeles Baseball.
Live Poll
Do you believe calling up young prospects significantly boosts your local team's chances of postseason success?
