The Los Angeles Dodgers could experience significant turnover in their bullpen this offseason, with the likes of Pedro Baez, Jake McGee and Blake Treinen each a free agent. So too is Alex Wood, who finished the season pitching in relief.
Meanwhile, Scott Alexander and Dylan Floro are eligible for salary arbitration. Although it may be unlikely, Alexander could be non-tendered and also become a free agent.
As the club looks to retool its group of relief pitchers, the Dodgers were said to be evaluating those in the second tier rather than an elite arm such as Liam Hendriks. According to Jon Morosi of MLB Network, L.A. may look to sign Brad Hand if Treinen does not remain with the team:
Source: #Dodgers showing interest in free agent LHP Brad Hand, who could fit into the bullpen’s “Blake Treinen” role if the team does not re-sign . . . Blake Treinen. @MLBNetwork @MLB
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) November 25, 2020
Once considered a top relief pitcher across baseball, Hand endured a bit of a rough 2019 season. He bounced back this year to lead the Majors with 16 saves, while also pitching to a 2.05 ERA and 22-to-4 strikeout to walk ratio.
However, that wasn’t enough to keep Hand under contract as the Cleveland Indians somewhat surprisingly placed him on waivers after failing to find a trade partner. With $10 million potentially owed in salary for 2021 and club’s operating with financial losses in mind, Hand went unclaimed and became a free agent.
The Dodgers were last connected to Hand at the trade deadline during the 2019 season. They also were said to have had interest in the southpaw while he was still a member of the San Diego Padres, but the asking price was too steep for their liking.
Treinen shined for Dodgers
Last winter the Dodgers took a chance on Treinen by signing him to a one-year deal after he was non-tendered by the Oakland Athletics. That wound up paying off in spades as Treinen recaptured his effective form and was a reliable option for Dodgers manager Dave Roberts in October.
Just as much as the team benefitted from having the right-hander in their bullpen, Treinen was appreciative of the trust shown in him. There would seemingly be mutual interest on a re-signing, but that may hinge on what type of market develops for Treinen.
Have you subscribed to our YouTube channel? It’s the best way to watch player interviews, exclusive coverage from events, participate in our shows, and more!
