While much of the focus this offseason for the Los Angeles Dodgers was centered around whether the club would re-sign Rich Hill, Kenley Jansen and Justin Turner, attention is now on the hole at second base.
Los Angeles has been linked to myriad options, ranging from Detroit Tigers second baseman Ian Kinsler to Brian Dozier of the Minnesota Twins. Although the Dodgers reportedly view Kinsler as a strong fit on their roster, he has the team on his no-trade list.
Kinsler is willing to waive his no-trade clause, though in exchange for a contract extension. Considering his age (34 years old) and financial commitment an extension would require, the Dodgers seemingly pivoted to Dozier.
Minnesota and Los Angeles are said to have continued discussions over a potential trade involving the All-Star second baseman.
According to Aaron Gleeman of BaseballProspectus.com, some believe the issue is sorting through who the Dodgers will package with Jose De Leon in exchange for Dozier:
Asked around on this again. Twins and Dodgers still talking. Sense is they're haggling over what comes with De Leon. https://t.co/Fn6LGq2z9I
— Aaron Gleeman (@AaronGleeman) December 15, 2016
Under president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman, the Dodgers have essentially refused to part with any of the organization’s top prospects. A recent report indicated the club still was not inclined to include De Leon in a trade.
At 24 years old and with some Major League experience, De Leon fits the mold of what the Twins are seeking in trades. Minnesota was also said to have interest in Brock Stewart.
As for the Dodgers, Dozier, who is under team control for two seasons, would be a boon at second base. He batted .268/.340/.546 with 35 doubles, 42 home runs, 99 RBI, a 136 OPS+, .370 wOBA and 132 wRC+ in 155 games this season.
The 29-year-old is owed $6 million in 2017 and $9 million the following season.
