Shortly after the Los Angeles Dodgers won their first World Series since 1988, president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman spoke of keeping an aggressive mindset with respect to potentially upgrading the roster and in pursuit of repeating as champions.
L.A. methodically navigated the winter, initially focusing on the bullpen by trading for Corey Knebel and shortly after inking Tommy Kahnle to a two-year contract and re-signing Blake Treinen.
The Dodgers then made a splash before the start of Spring Training by signing Trevor Bauer to a record-setting contract, and that was followed by retaining Justin Turner. The combination of moves have the Dodgers as a World Series favorite heading into the 2021 season.
During a recent appearance on MLB Network, Cody Bellinger marveled at the talent the Dodgers have collected in the clubhouse along with the overall environment and focus:
“It’s special, man. It is special. It’s a fun locker room to be in right now. I’m not taking it for granted. We’re ready to win. We want to continue to be the best team we can be and it’s going to be another fun year. I’m really excited for it.”
Bellinger previously spoke highly of the Dodgers’ roster, calling the 2020 team arguably the ‘most talented’ group he has ever played with. Even with L.A. losing the likes of Kiké Hernandez and Joc Pederson, it can be argued this season’s roster boasts more talent.
On top of adding Bauer, and re-signing Treinen and Turner, the Dodgers welcomed back David Price. The initial expectation was he would be part of a talented starting rotation, but Price has expressed a willingness to pitch out of the bullpen.
Bauer fitting in with Dodgers
The Dodgers’ signing of Bauer was met by some external concern and questions in terms of chemistry and clubhouse fit due to his outspoken and at times abrasive past. However, every indication thus far has been Bauer fits well with others.
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