The Los Angeles Dodgers set a franchise record with 111 wins this past season but after falling short of their World Series goal, have been among the teams connected to top free agents.
Most notably the Dodgers have been identified as a favorite to sign Justin Verlander. While he would provide a boost to their starting rotation, L.A. has a void at shortstop with Trea Turner reaching free agency for the first time in his career.
The Dodgers reportedly have interest in re-signing Turner, but he’s believed to covet a return to the East Coast. That could lead to signing Xander Bogaerts, Carlos Correa or Dansby Swanson.
Furthermore, the Dodgers are open to a Kolten Wong trade with the Milwaukee Brewers, in addition to signing a big-name shortstop, and moving Gavin Lux to third base, according to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic:
One possible scenario: Trade for Brewers second baseman Kolten Wong, a player the Dodgers like, according to major-league sources. Sign one of the big four free-agent shortstops. Play Gavin Lux at third.
Adding Wong would further lengthen the Dodgers lineup while also having a steady glove up the middle. However, potentially moving Lux to third base could create a soft spot in the Dodgers’ defense.
Lux had a rough experiment in one game at third base in 2021 and never returned to the position. He’s appeared much more comfortable at second base, but that too has entailed occasional growing pains for the natural shortstop.
Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman and manager Dave Roberts have both suggested Lux would slide over to shortstop if the Dodgers fail to address the position with a player from outside the organization.
If the Dodgers are willing to have Lux play third base, that could signal Justin Turner is unlikely to be re-signed and Max Muncy may shift to more of a designated hitter role.
Potential trade between Dodgers and Brewers
Prior to their reported interest in Wong, the Dodgers were said to be open to a potential trade for Brewers shortstop Willy Adames.
Wong is under team control through the 2023 season, while Adames isn’t due to become a free agent until after 2024.
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