I just caught this article on the LA Times’ year in review for Yasiel Puig.

The tagline says “Yasiel Puig needs to step up the maturity level with the Dodgers depending on him in his third season.”

I disagree.

What makes Puig so valuable is the daily energy he has the ability to bring to the team. His enthusiasm is contagious. It’s a reason to turn on the television (for those who can) and watch the team play.

He’s a year older this season. Since he’s a professional, I’m going to assume his interest lies in getting better. I do expect him to make smarter plays. I expect him to make better decisions on the bases. I guess I also expect him to hit the cutoff man more often.

But maturity isn’t something you can force on someone — especially a professional athlete. He will either mature, or he won’t — some athletes never do.

I think the Dodgers can live with him still being somewhat immature. What they cannot live with is a big drop in energy and enthusiasm.

When given the choice between some missed cutoff men and a disengaged right fielder, I say throw it into the stands.