Among the early storylines for the Los Angeles Dodgers when they report to Camelback Ranch in just over one week will be the return of David Price, who opted out of the 2020 season because of coronavirus (COVID-19) concerns.
The left-hander was part of last year’s blockbuster trade with the Boston Red Sox that also allowed the Dodgers to acquire Mookie Betts. A five-time All-Star and former Cy Young Award winner, Price looked impressive in Spring Training coming off left wrist surgery, but all of that momentum was lost when the league went on hiatus.
Price then announced during Summer Camp that he would sit out the year. Though he wasn’t physically at the ballpark, he still stayed in touch with his teammates and coaches from afar.
Now with a new season approaching, Price has given every indication that he plans to return to the mound. During a recent appearance on MLB Network Radio, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said he is looking forward having Price part of the rotation:
“I’m so excited to get David back. We saw him a little bit in Spring Training (last year), so to get him back, he’s fresh, I know he’s chomping at the bit. So that’s going to be fun.”
With Price back in the fold, the Dodgers now have a formidable quartet leading their rotation with the forthcoming signing of Trevor Bauer. Price, along with Clayton Kershaw, Walker Buehler and Bauer, are expected to be accompanied by Julio Urias as the fifth starter.
Dodgers reportedly may be ‘open’ to trading Price
While Roberts expects to get Price back this season, a recent report suggested the Dodgers could look to trade him in order to stay below the luxury tax threshold.
The notion that L.A. would be wiling to trade Price was posited under possible solutions for the Red Sox and their payroll flexibility. They no longer appear to be a potential fit after signing Kiké Hernandez and trading for Adam Ottavino.
Price is due to earn $64 million over the next two seasons, but the chances of the Dodgers moving him remain slim at best with most teams looking to shed payroll.
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