With the World Series now complete, MLB free agency officially began Sunday morning. For the Los Angeles Dodgers, that amounted to 10 players no longer being under contract, including Clayton Kershaw, Trea Turner and Tyler Anderson.
That group could expand depending on whether the Dodgers exercise or decline the club options of four players for the 2023 season. Among the players affected are Hanser Alberto, who was a new addition to the Dodgers this year.
Alberto struggled at the plate but made 10 appearances out of the bullpen, which set a record for most games pitched by a position player. However, his biggest contributions came in the clubhouse, where his joyful presence helped keep the mood light.
According to Juan Toribio of MLB.com, the Dodgers are nonetheless are expected to decline Alberto’s $2 million option for the 2023 season:
#Dodgers will be declining Hanser Alberto’s $2 million club option for next season, sources told https://t.co/JAgfwpSef4. He’ll be a free agent when that becomes official.
— Juan Toribio (@juanctoribio) November 8, 2022
Despite not being included on the Dodgers’ National League Division Series roster, it seemed plausible the club would bring back Alberto for another season.
The 30-year-old was a beloved member in the clubhouse and received praise from several players throughout the year for the energy he provided.
Once made official, Alberto will receive a $250,000 buyout and become a free agent. Teams have until 2 p.m. PT on Thursday to finalize contract option decisions.
Mookie Betts: Hanser Alberto ‘very important’ in Dodgers clubhouse
Mookie Betts was among those who spoke highly of Alberto and believed his presence was important to have in the Dodgers clubhouse.
“It’s funny. Hanser, man, he’s just catalyst that in the clubhouse that keeps us all loose, keeps us having fun,” Betts said earlier this year.
“He’s always dancing and always making a smile. Just a very important person to have.”
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