On a special edition of “DodgerHeads,” host Jeff Spiegel was joined by Baseball Prospectus editor in chief Craig Goldstein to discuss the Los Angeles Dodgers winning the 2020 World Series, manager Dave Roberts, Clayton Kershaw’s postseason history and more.
Goldstein reflected on the painful memory of watching Kershaw surrendered back-to-back home runs to Anthony Rendon and Juan Soto during an ill-fated relief appearance against the Washington Nationals in Game 5 of the 2019 National League Division Series.
It was a low point for Kershaw, who said criticism of his postseason struggles carried truth, but he rebounded with an encouraging regular season and October run, much to the delight of Goldstein and others.
Goldstein additionally drew parallels between Roberts and Houston Astros manager Dusty Baker and Tampa Bay Rays skipper Kevin Cash. Goldstein posited that one issue for Roberts is his attempt to be a blend of both traditionalist and new-age manager.
The conversation then shifted to Dodgers free agents, which Goldstein only sees one member from the 2020 roster returning. He presumes the club will look to retool in the bullpen, which could lead to intriguing decisions.
Dodgers free agents
As it currently stands, the group of Dodgers free agents is comprised of Pedro Baez, Kiké Hernandez, Jake McGee, Jimmy Nelson, Joc Pederson, Justin Turner, Blake Treinen and Alex Wood.
Although the likes of Francisco Lindor and Nolan Arenado are believed to be available — and who the Dodgers previously have been connected to in trade speculation — they are considered more likely to re-sign Turner than complete another blockbuster.
A driving force behind the sentiment is the 12-year contract extension doled out to Mookie Betts, and the likes of Corey Seager, Cody Bellinger and Walker Buehler not being far off from free agency themselves.
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